In theory this seemed like a great use of existing space on my properties that were already multi families but In reality the cost benefit did not make sense.

I do want to "add" to the realities you discussed!

I printed and hung up that picture as motivation to keep pushing toward the dream of breaking free from that reality. 

The fear of missing the 45 day time frame is almost always greater than the reality of it. 

And many noobs who want to hit a home run right away without “planting that tree” and willing to wait several years will get a hard lesson on the reality of what we’re dealing with.

Ok, ready for some reality checks from a person who was there, seen it, done it, survived to tell the tales? 

You're usually spot on, but this advice is based off myth more than reality. 

They are managing their own STRs like a luxury hotel, implementing renting strategies similar to NYC and LA where they are renting out rooms and targeting schools and traveling nurses.The clients I have that want an auto-pilot property to do well are not living in reality right now.

The reality is the opposite - if it's not in writing then the PMC doesn't have to provide the service or can charge extra for it!

So yes, that IS the reality of agents out there.