Pick up the phone or stop by local code enforcement offices to make sure that you have a crystal clear understanding of local laws and regulations.

I know that by law you can only do 3 STR (less than 30 days) per year.  

You have to prove you did everything right and then because of “empathy” for the poor snook who “fell into you schemes” you may lose anyway.This is a legally binding transaction that will be treated that way by the law.

@Emily Gowen These types of questions are precisely the focus of my firm.

I will not comment as to the tax laws and underlying rules - that is a discussion you can have with your tax advisor who presumably you are paying to help you.What I will do is provide practical and business guidance on tracking time.Firstly, there are apps available that can assist with time tracking where you can specifically detail your time, who you met with, etc.

Would definitely check local zoning / code enforcement laws as well.  

If the tenants don’t leave by the deadline, your next step would be to check your state’s landlord-tenant laws to understand the eviction process.

I would be happy to connect you with him if you wanted to inquire further.I think 10% is as low as you will find for investment property, unless you purchase an SFR with an ADU or mother-in-law and house hack with a primary home loan.I hope that helps!

Look up NC Tenant/Landlord Law.

The law allows you to charge for ALL cleaning, including trash removal.