You can even connect with local HR teams and offer small referral bonuses to get more bookings.

I personally use Hostfully and their support team is great!

Did USAA give you a specific list of renovations they want done?

This is not specific to any individual or any specific real estate investment, or specific company offering investmentsMost people who invest in passive investments do far too LITTLE research on the investment itself and on the “sponsor”; furthermore most do not understand the investment and many have absolutely no idea exactly what they invested in.  

Submitting real offers that you feel confident actually closing on and having a strong sponsor to work with that has a track record will go much further towards you winning deals.In short, you can pursue larger deals right out of the gate if you want to, but generally expect that it'll take you longer to win one and make sure you have the right players on your team so that you're prepared to win them and to close them once you do.

My advice would be to ask very specific questions to identify if your pain points will truly be alleviated. 

@Jonathan Blanco, I'm and investor and a licensed mortgage broker so I've been on both sides of this conversation.I would look for a lender that (1) listens to you and understands your strategy and needs (hint: it's not always money), (2) has experience working with clients executing your strategy and brings more to the table than just cash - be it advice, relationships, deal-team partners, etc., (3) gives you viable options and explains the pros and cons of each option and (4) you enjoy interacting with - this should be a relationship, not a transaction.Once you find a few lenders like this (and you should have relationships with more than one), then you can start comparing rates and fees.

Looking for suggestions on any specific building materials, fixtures, accessories, furniture, and tech for a STR.  

Find a reliable team, offer fair pay, and keep them motivated to stick with you for future projects.That’s what I have off the top of my head.

I’ve got a great team including contractors, real estate agents, and lenders.