As a starting point: -If they work full time and make $700k a year -Don't want to or can't spend time self managing a short-term rental -Don't have a spouse who wants to take the lead on managing the rentals They are likely not going to directly reduce their taxable income with real estate year-to-year. 

Remodeling costs increase the property’s basis, while post-rental repairs are deductible expenses in the year incurred.An LLC isn’t necessary for a single rental but can provide liability protection as your portfolio grows.

If I was the buyer's broker, I would have checked myself to protect my client.If they had, then they would have found out it was not a three family.

Some of you may find this information helpful if you have assets that you want to protect from creditors and liabilities. 

2. have you noticed higher and regular exterior maintence protection (sealing/weatherproofing/termite/bug protection) or anythign?

Management & Leasing FeesManagement Fee: 10% of the monthly rent = $180/monthLeasing Fee (Tenant Placement): 60% of one month’s rent = $1,080 (one-time)Lease Renewal Fee: $250 per lease renewalUpfront & Annual FeesOnboarding Fee: $350 (one-time for setting up the property)Annual Administrative Fee: $45 per year (for statements and 1099s)Reserve Fund Requirement: $300 (held for maintenance and expenses)Maintenance & RepairsOrdinary Maintenance: Any repair costs exceeding $300 require owner approval.Emergency Repairs: Up to $300 without prior approval; HVAC, plumbing, and electrical repairs can go up to $500 without approval.Home Warranty Claim Handling: $40 per claim (if applicable).Multiple Quotes Request Fee: $100 per request if you require multiple vendor quotes.HVAC Filter Supply Fee: $195 per year per HVAC unit.Repairs & Improvements: 10% markup over vendor invoice cost.Additional FeesInterest on Unpaid Sums: 10% late fee with a $39 minimum per month.Paper Check Administrative Fee: $20 per check if not using direct deposit.Insurance Documentation Penalty: $40 per month if proof of insurance is not provided.Eviction Protection Program (Optional): $15/monthProperty Damage Protection Program (Optional): $25/monthTermination FeesEarly Termination Fee: Equal to the management fees for the remaining lease term.Vacant Property Termination Fee: $500 if no tenant is in place.Transfer to Another Manager: $500 file transfer fee.

A key risk is the due-on-sale clause, allowing the lender to demand full repayment, though enforcement varies.Keeping the property in an LLC provides liability protection, shielding personal assets from lawsuits.

You’d need a clear exit plan and enforceable lease terms to protect your investment.Think about the following:Tenant Risk – Can they truly recover financially, or will you face another eviction situation?

Most importantly, to protect you, the investor.

I want to be able to protect myself if he comes back asking for money than the cost for the work that he did.