Managing STRs involves guest communication, coordinating cleanings, promptly (like, within an hour or so) handling any maintenance issues - it's completely reasonable that their rate is higher than that of a LTR PM.  

We have two floors -1 bed with ensuite on that floor and a half bath, upstairs three bedrooms, a common living room and 2 more full common baths.

I travel the country for work so it’s not too much of an issue

Regarding the secondary roof issue, your first step should be to consult with your current insurance provider.

While they have a right to be present, they can sabotage the showing, talking about their issues with other tenants or neighbors, wasting everyone’s time.

What I would do is politely communicate the issue to the applicant.

was the common question.  

Is this a common procedure following an upset sale?

take that an no great weather issues and some of the absolute lowest prop tax's no income tax and now a company that can deal with squatters the way they should be dealt with.. 

Is it common to withhold retention from the general contractor payments until lean release is obtained from the sub performing the work?