How do you se the "rented" rooms?

Pro se or attorney filed, it's all the same. 

I'd definitely prefer to not be subject to SE tax if possible but wanted to make sure I do it right since this is my first return with STRs. 

Best of luck to you down the in the SE valley!

You knew the situation with the rental, lack of security deposit etc.So, with these costs factored into your plans right from the time of purchase, they are really just part of the costs to get the place rehabbed and you haven't "lost" anything per se.

Replacing carpet and paint just isn't complicated.and my point is like I said its not the book per se or BRRR lord knows I did thousands of them for clients.. but we had a much tigher control over the rehab.. then someone trying to do it for the first time out of the gate with people they basically just met..  

I d hate to be audited and come under penalties because I answered yes to questions above.There are advantages to paying some SE tax and filing a schedule C.

I am seriously considering doing exactly this in SE Texas.

“Getting into real estate” per se is not your goal.

Jeff, I don't have any industry experience, but can give you consumer feedback.I live in SE WI and many national carwash companies have come into the market and built some very high end facilities.