This included updating the home's interior, improving curb appeal, and modernizing key features.

From personal experience, outdoor entertainment areas, modern kitchens, and even beach gear can make a huge difference.

I would recommend just going to their website and filling out the inquiry form, the agent I worked with was Kyle B but it seems like part of their schtick is that it's all technology based insurance brokering to save you $ so I don't know that reaching out to a specific agent like a normal insurance quote would work!

I currently work in the Information Technology sector as a programmer analyst and am looking to start this exciting adventure toward financial independence using real estate as the vehicle.  

It would be interesting to hear about the technology landlords use for leasing, property management software, unattended leasing, AI, deposits, and more.

The modern features and amenities can attract renters, and energy-efficient designs might help keep utility bills down.

Upgrading fixtures, adding modern tile, and improving lighting can make a big impact.

Know the house and the finishes, if its out date stage it to look modern or make some renderings of the updates.

If you operate an STR, gross income is your total rent paid by your guests, before any subtractions.To figure out your taxes, you take this gross income and subtract from it all allowable business expenses: marketing, education, technology, licenses and fees (including Airbnb and credit card fees), office expenses, business driving and so on.

Just like with multifamily buildings, the more modern and move-in-ready a property is, the less potential there is for adding value, which can limit your return on investment.I suggest looking for off-market properties.