Yes most landlords give up the likelihood of collecting in the near future is bleak.Recently we have started turning out over to collection group who just harass them and eventually get something out on their credit and if one day they ever clean up their act to buy a house we may get paid.

If I have predetermined that I am replacing the carpet when a tenant moves (usually only because it is old and worn) then I am not going to charge them for a carpet cleaning or damages.

Once we closed on the property in July 2015, we began our clean out by tearing out all of the old carpet ourselves.  

I’m assuming minimal interior repairs (full paint, re-carpeting plus a good cleaning) at about $15k.

Technically that is not correct, and could bite us in the butt, but I haven't had to fight it yet....After they vacate the property, within 45 days, you need to send them a final accounting of the damages, cleaning, etc and how their security deposit was applied..

Let them leave asap so you can clean up and move on.

The same day they moved out, my property manager e-mailed me pictures of the now-vacant property, and said the bid for any "Make-Ready" items (paint, cleaning, yard, etc), would be coming soon.  

It is totally possible to manage booking/payment/access yourself and contract out the cleaning and maintenance.

The returns for their model have shrunk so much the only thing that saves them is deep pockets.

Does the home feel fresh and clean?