In other words, if you can get a laborer for $9/hour, but you have to stand there and supervise him and also provide tools, that is not the right comparable expense.

Users searching for your competitor either already have an account with them, or they are conducting research, and comparing pricing/services between property management companies they are considering.

However, I can promise you if your comparables have very open floorplans and high end finishes, you will take a hit by having a kitchen tucked away in the back of the house without a doubt.

The seller's house is currently being rented, which I did not know prior to seeing the house in person.

Anyway you are right, I'm starting to notice houses are up for sale much longer than it has been compared to the last 2 years. 

I have called the lawyer, prior owner etc.

I have tried the assessor, recorder, SOS, and even calling the prior owner.

They had, just two days prior, talked about selling the property, before my ohone call.

There is definitely money to made in SS, and plenty of people are doing it.I'll also add to Mike's comments that small increases are easily attainable as (1) tenants typically aren't talking to each other about price (i.e. comparing their rent), etc and (2) most tenants don't find a small increase in price motivation enough to spend money on a moving truck and spend a weekend or more moving their belongings to a new facility.

Just because they're m2m doesn't mean it's comparable to an airbnb setup.