Yes, STRs take way more work and is definitely more of a side-gig than a "passive" investment, but with systems in place and a great cleaning staff, most of it is automated and cruises on down the road with limited interaction.One thing that we "knew" but didn't prepare for is just having more reserves - which everyone probably could admit that they "should" have more. 

If you're looking for the agency she works with to find housing, let me know and I can ask her for you because they have an amazing set up for my sister.I have a friend who created his own Airbnb automation software and his experience in his rental situation for his investment properties showed that renting to travel nurses panned out to be the best financial value for him.

- These photos will reel people into your property and ultimately make or break if a person decides to book with you - Professional photos typically range from about $200-$500 and it all depends on your market 3) Competitive pricing - There are so many great softwares that automate this process like Pricelabs and Beyond Pricing- These softwares are constantly updating pricing automatically based on the demand of the properties in the area - There are also so many customizations you can play around with to do a lot of trial and error - Highly recommend choosing to offer a discount on the first few bookings- Airbnb and VRBO both offer this option to you as part of the listing setup process4) Response time - The listing platforms like Airbnb and VRBO prioritize hosts who are extremely responsive to guests - Make sure you are responding to guests as soon as they send a message - There are software's that automate the majority of the messages like - request to book, booking confirmed, check-in instructions, check-out instructions, and more!

Zillow automation next year growth is only 1 percent.

I know that having a system to automate lead generation is the key so I am exploring social media and will focus on those strategies for the next 6 months.  

Looking for suggestions for automated and/or easiest way to keep track of multiple credit cards, several mortgages, lines of credit, taxes, insurance DUE DATES/AMOUNTS owed, logins passwords  etc...Now I use an excel spread sheet but its not ideal and would prefer something easier that has reminders or something similar when payment is due etc.....

Mainly, the systems implemented are fascinating (VA, automated offers, etc.)

My approach is very similar to your letter, except I add some "personal" stuff about me to help them see it's not an automated letter.  

Specifically,Ways I can leverage my current property to purchase moreBest ways to update my property for more cashflowHow to be an awesome landlord and automate processesPlease feel free to connect or share any information on landlord/investor meetups in Chicago!

Give them your criteria and have them to put you in their automated email program that sends you new foreclosures or ones that the status changes.