As far as what I learned, I prefer STR’s and managing it myself vs a PM.

Read my blog entry Risk Management for the Self Manager.  

What about mechanics, attorneys, bank managers, auto sales, accountants, insurance brokers, realtors and similar?

For out-of-state STRs investors, is it normal for a cohost / property manager to insist on creating an OTA listing on their account to better streamline their systems?

I am an investor, property manager, and realtor specializing in investments.

We told the property manager about this 6 months ago and  she addressed it with the Tenant. 

Include clauses for delays and how they will be managed.4.

We have probably 50+ Schalge Encodes we manage. 

I personally don't like STR's because they are more of a business than an investment(in my opinion).You didn't mention the amount of hours that you and your spouse work but I would have to assume it be between 1900 to 2200 hours assuming you work 48 weeks and between 40 to 50 hours a week.If you buy a STR and self-manage it, you are added 200-300 hours per year in additional work making your life more stressful and less time to do things that you enjoy.Best of luck. 

We can help you out with offmarket aquisition and Property Management in Cincinnati , give me a call to see if we have answers to all the woes you had with your previous PM companies you used , or if you are new to investing in cincinnati we can start from basics and help you put as well