Are you focusing on online lead gen like Facebook ads, Zillow, or platforms like BiggerPockets?

That’ll give you flexibility to automate and integrate workflows as your needs evolve.A direct booking site is a nice-to-have down the line if you want to save on platform fees and build a brand, but starting with platforms like Furnished Finder or VRBO is a solid way to keep things simple while you’re getting started.Good luck—sounds like you’re on the right track!

I’ve made a conscious effort in automating and digitizing more of my rental management tasks and can share some of the tools I've been exploring that might be helpful to others.I use Baselane a lot, it is a platform that's really geared towards landlords and real estate investors.

Vrbo and Airbnb sync with each other for free, Vrbo has free dynamic pricing, both platforms send out enough automated messages for me.I check in on guests after they arrive to provide that small personal touch.We get consistent 5 star reviews with minimal effort.

From what I've seen, the average view-to-application ratio on platforms like Facebook Marketplace can vary quite a bit, but a general ballpark is around 5-10%.

What are the pros and cons compared to other platforms? 

If you don't want to use an attorney, you can make an LLC through the secretary of state website https://www.ohiosos.gov/businesses/information-on-starting-a... or other software platforms like zen business and rocket lawyer. 

AirBNB is a platform you list your STRs on.I didn't get that you want zero income like @Bill B. mentioned but it should be pretty easy to to get this rolling.

I love that the features of Avail and other property management softwares are integrated into the platform

As others have commented, this is a scenario where you will have most luck with a private individual lender or some other local financing - just too small for pretty much all the national platform hard money lenders