I even reached out to hosts on Airbnb, and one said to call the city planner to get my STR permit. 

Since roughly 75%+ of travelers bring pets, this would be a great opportunity for any host to make more income.

. ** I’d ask for their Airbnb or VRBO profile link to review their reviews, years hosting, etc. to ensure it lines up with what they’re telling you*2.) with you guys being out of town, I’d make positive they have a team of maintenance guys for whenever something along the lines pop up.

STR/MTR host here. 1.

You should ask a host of questions about how they handle situations and the systems in place - rent collections, maintenance, evictions, vacancies, etc.

Guests think that Airbnb is no longer cheaper than hotels and in most cases it's not anymore, but hosts still need to make a profit.   

Hello,I have been hearing on BP podcasts that tenant turnovers can equal about $6000-8000 (one host even said up to $10k, if I recall correctly) when lost rent and repair/upgrade costs are factored together.

I host one every few months.

Split-fee: most common and split between the Host and guest. 

We now own 4 properties in the Blue Ridge Area and are co-hosting 5 others (with 4 more coming in the next 6mo).