Name doesn't ring a bell, but I searched our company contact records for Elliott Taylor.

I've had some bad experiences with property managers and your advice rings true.

As far as providers I couldn't say as far as I am concerned they are all selling overpriced crap.The only "great" turnkey deals are C- to D class inner city or inner ring suburban properties with ridiculously optimistic numbers that will never pan out.

I usually only see the tenant when she takes her dog outside on my Ring Doorbell.

I've seen complaints from other STR owners with photos of laminate counters with burn rings from hot pots, which won't happen with granite. 

I remember a presenter in a real estate class recently saying, 'Buyers are liars, and sellers are even worse,' which got a good laugh from everyone because it rings pretty true in this business.

(Keypad lock, thermostat, etc) I have ring at my own personal home, I know of another Host who uses Google Nest. 

Smart lock, smart thermostat, Ring doorbell or security camera that you can view remotely (make sure to disclose them on the platforms), Pricelabs for dynamic pricing.  

Zillow rings, you need to drop everything, oh sure sure I can show you the house tonight at 5pm.

I am afraid he's part of illegal gambling ring in bay area from certain regional ethnicities, these gambling casino ring was common few years ago.