but, it's not going to be "profitable" for several years, depending on how you define profit.you'll have a down payment, then closing costs - which new investors always seem to be shocked by - then potentially some costs to get a property rent ready, then you'll pay a month's rent to get it listed and rented out, then you'll likely have some repairs after the tenant moves in.  

  (2) Variable cost: platform fees from Airbnb and VRBO, lodging/hotel/transit or whatever pass-through tax your local AHJ requires, cleaning fee, cost of replacement for consumables, repair and maintenance, etc. 

This is typically done 3x a year.Hire a company to deep clean the washing machine, drier, and dishwasher.Reimburse us for the combined 8 hours we have now spent on cleaning the home.Repaint the walls, at minimum in the basement.Prorate our rent for the days we are unable to be in the home due to the current issues and any repair time.Please let us know how you would like to proceed.Thank you,Sindy and Cary"You need a professional property manager!

Think about capex and repairs. 

Keep in mind travel time, repairs, and lifestyle to manage the out of state rental.

My current occupancy rate is around 40%.Property Details:1,400 sq. ft. single-family home (3 bed, 2.5 bath)Weekend bookings are more frequent, with limited weekday staysWeekend rates: $150–$250/nightWeekday rates: $80–$100/nightAirbnb Listing: https://www.airbnb.com/h/vip-houstonWhat I've Done So Far:Created a brand-new Airbnb and booking.com listings to eliminate bad reviews from Airbnb and Booking.comHired a reliable cleaner ($150 per cleaning)Manually update pricing often on Airbnb (tried Pricelabs once and gave up when nothing improved within the month)Change my cover photo at least once a week or soListed the property on Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, furnished finder, Zillow, and Facebook marketplaceScheduled handyman visits every six weeks for minor repairs and paint touch-upsI'd appreciate any feedback on the steps I've taken and suggestions on improving my listing and overall performance.

He did the repairs and remodel himself.

@Ludwig Koeneke There is an appraisal form type that you can order which gives both the AS IS value as well as the After Repaired Value based on the scope of work proposed that you submit. 

This was a few years ago, but at that time as I recall they were looking to do more long-term property leases over owning properties and doing pretty landlord friendly leases where they would do repairs and even pay property taxes. 

Hard part is keeping on the muscle mass.