So I'd be doing my best to get the highest possible rent/revenue but without needing or counting on that.What you refer as cut-throat competition exists in every market where you have demand.

And what kind of protection are you referring to?

If you are out of state, who connected you to the contractor and what references did they have?

Bonus points if they can refer you to reputable contractors in the area. 

I want to be sure I’m understand what your point of reference is.

If needed for reference, the questions I have for the CPA are posted at:https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/51/topics/1221080-1031-...

I am definatley going to keep these posts for future reference.

By "business account," I’m referring to setting up an LLC as well as a business bank account.My goal is to expand my real estate portfolio by acquiring approximately two properties per year.

Our aim to is make the investing journey more enjoyable by sharing direct feedback about what’s happening on the ground, actionable investing intel, real estate references, among other things that make investing not seem soo alien, tedious, worrisome, or out of reach.

If you need a referral to an excellent agent who works exclusively with STRs in that specific market, I can refer ours  I'm an agent, but yes I am in contact w/ one out there familiar w/ STRs. thanks for asking.