I live in the Rabbu site - I like the customization aspect, with most sites it provides enough information to make accurate assessments, you can also pretty clearly see the difference between a well run STR and a MEH run STR.

Except their customer service is only through email.

If it is your first, you don't need software just yet-- already there will be such a learning curve from how to manage your place and talking to customers.

When you're responsible for customizing the layout you can get more creative and find extra space a builder missed out on because they wanted to include some type of flex space or amenity room or it just didn't fit their box.

Additionally, by incorporating flexibility into its use—potentially housing commercial tenants during repairs at another property—I enhanced the strategic utility of the investment within my broader portfolio.

Hostaway's lack of transparency in their pricing makes them pretty hard to recommend to anyone since these types of "custom" pricing schemes are often used as a means of upcharging new customers. 

*Investor-Focused Solutions: Custom loan structures that make it easier to get deals done, from seasoned pros to first-time investors.I’m passionate about helping investors simplify the loan process and make smarter financial moves.

STR has a lot more risk given the seasonality swings and I cannot understate the time involved in bookings and customer service.Having said that we DO have STRs here in St Augustine, Florida in prime areas in the $400s. 

With a CC you don’t have to worry about scaring customers away and you also protect yourself.Also, if I were looking to commit a violent crime, my first person I’d target is someone with a visible firearm.

Understanding my customer, I bought similar properties to what they were currently renting.This strategy is similar to how national retail chains operate: identify your target customers and provide what they want.