STR’s are a business with a variety of startup costs — deferred rent as you build up reviews, furniture, frequent cleaning, increased insurance, stocking the kitchen with everything renters will need.There are a couple of companies that are willing to manage STR’s in Boston — giving you either a flat rent per month or the proceeds minus a management fee.

I know this is an older post, but had a quick followup question-If I am currently not a host, but I do all the paperwork to become official FIRST, then if I buy furniture, make improvements, etc would all that be deductible?

North Carolina was known for tobacco, textiles and furniture.  

I got married (this was a good thing and probably a good question for the forum about having a fantastic spouse and partner), bought a house, a new car, a house full of furniture, and your typical doo-dads that didn't do anything for me other than make me feel like I was keeping up with Jones'.It wasn't till a couple of years later that I got my hands on "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" and found my way into Real Estate investing.   

You can rent furniture pretty cheap or use a staging company.

The appraiser is going to take pictures of 123 Main Street, showing very scant furniture.

You might want to put in your leases that moving furniture by tenant and guests (that includes parents) are at their "own risk".

I might mention that if you have properties and rent to students please remember alot of them (not all) have victorian, ton weight, antique furniture that has been handed down and all try to move each piece with a relative who may or may not be familiar with how to lift much less carry furniture up and down stairs.

Additionally, it is no longer good enough to have a nice house with furniture so focus on design that can distinguish yourself but also you must add amenities. 

We ask folks to put down area rugs or small mats under their furniture.