The greatest profits are in properties that can be repositioned to a higher and better use, or appreciate the highest over time, or will throw off a TRUE cash flow of 20% per annum on total investment (cash + debt + capital investment). 

Like I said, the calculator is telling me it's possible on some that I see on market now but I'll have to see if that is true in reality when I run the numbers with a lender. 

It's true that you make your money with appreciation and not cash flow, in the long run.

Most people who make a ton on Airbnb hire out designers, put in flashy amenities, and create a true experience.

SI is a true turnkey provider.

It’s true that while the 10% down payment for a second home sounds appealing, the fact that rate adjustments are now similar makes the distinction less about cost and more about strategy.A few years ago, I helped a couple in San Diego navigate this exact decision.

The very basics would be getting your furniture and shopping list together, keyless entry like Schlage (with backup lockbox with physical key very close as well), looking into insurance, local taxes for STRs, and moreAlot of ways to save time and make it easier to self manage with a property management software like Hospitable and data research like AirDNA.

We syndicated 75%, plus costs of the purchase price and financed the balance with a traditional loan.We shopped around for weeks to find the perfect loan with the best rates and terms.

Quote from @Steve Tse: Hi BP, What insurance carriers can you recommend in Texas, as I am shopping around to replace my landlords policy that I currently have with Travelers ?

You’ve got to follow the rules closely, and that means working with a qualified intermediary (QI) who’ll hold your funds in escrow while you shop around.