You'll want to look at their reviews, how they safeguard your funds, understand what their fees are, and how responsive they will be to your questions (do they work 9-5 only). 

I GUESS you could say that has to be factored in to today’s value.

In my own journey, capital was always the limiting factor, so SFH's are just the default.

Why ask: Get clarity on the full cost of the program, any additional fees, and what’s included.

Too many are locking up properties at retail prices and tacking on outrageous assignment fees, leaving no room for investors to profit.

I've seen it with my own eyes, my real estate ventures have hit the jackpot thanks to these tactics.Now, let's dive into boosting that revenue through clever fees and rebranding.Charging appropriate fees during the application and move-in process is essential.

Quote from @Jeff Sanders: Personally coming from an agent/investor in CA, I always get a quote from a broker of mine and make sure I am knowledgeable with the fees/costs.

So long as your original fee to open the account is booked as a personal contribution to your business and all the transactions are business-related, it seems like your best solution until you get back stateside.

Location and amenities are the two most important factors that bring potential renters to an STR. 

(Of course, there is a factor that higher rating will increase my booking but that is not just coming from adding one or two amenities) Besides item 5 and 6, I am not sure how much other items will attract more guests to my business.