Vrbo and Airbnb sync with each other for free, Vrbo has free dynamic pricing, both platforms send out enough automated messages for me.I check in on guests after they arrive to provide that small personal touch.We get consistent 5 star reviews with minimal effort.

If we're consistently profitable and find that the cleaner is not effective in responding to guest needs, then we will not hesitate to go the dedicated on-island agent route.

In the case of a successful tort against you, you might regret commingling funds in a single bank account, but I can't see how keeping them consistently separated would ever burn you, even if it is a bit less convenient.  

Biggest thing IMO is getting close to the train station and have a high quality units that may not look attractive on paper the first few years but will have the ability to raise rents consistently long term. 

For many owners, this is a win.Other owners may value the consistent monthly deposits rather than worrying about the usually seasonal STR incomes. 

When selling for sale by owner (FSBO), ensure all legal documentation is in order and consider consulting with a real estate professional or attorney to handle the lease transfer and legal aspects effectively.

The other qualities of being successful is just consistency, do it daily.  **** is hard, but that's the reason not everyone is successful. 

Hard work and consistent action pay off.

How consistently has it show that it can be profitable. 

While it doesn't meet the 1% rule it's in a stable, desirable area that'll perform more consistently for you over time so it's worth the tradeoff in my opinion.