Just found Xome while googling for real estate technologies.Looks like their differentiator is the online dashboard and also speed at which you can bid on properties.https://www.xome.com/pages/xome-auction Anyone have experience with these guys?

My experience has been way different. 

Maybe you don't know how to differentiate between ordinary maintenance and tenant neglect/abuse?

Owners mistakenly ASSUME all PMCs offer the exact SAME SERVICES and PERFORM those services EXACTLY THE SAME WAY, so price is the only differentiator – so, they often select the first PMC they call or that calls them back!

Owners mistakenly ASSUME all PMCs offer the exact SAME SERVICES and PERFORM those services EXACTLY THE SAME WAY, so price is the only differentiator – so, they often select the first PMC they call or that calls them back!

The only thing that would be different is that Proper covers revenue loss + all the bells and whistles  I feel I don't need for 2x the cost - squatters/bed bugs.Any input on this from more experienced STR investors or others with insurance backgrounds please?

I think the best you can do is add a few accent walls in the bedrooms and make it less neutral. we paint everything white in our new builds and very neutral as well as do higher end simple painted accent walls and trim walls to help make the house a little different. if you really want to sell I'd get a interior designer / stager and spend 5k with a way more experience agent who sells new builds. we are licensed if you can't find someone. the way I market is very different. 

Owners mistakenly ASSUME all PMCs offer the exact SAME SERVICES and PERFORM those services EXACTLY THE SAME WAY, so price is the only differentiator – and they often select the first PMC they call!

These differentiators will be the difference between success and failure if/when occupancy slides.

Best bet is likely (not absolute - everyone's situation is different) is to look at a national lender or broker that has options in lots of states - its a great development versus 20 odd years ago, with technology, internet, places like this - can have access to many more options than before (local broker or lender thats it)