Stays of >30 days are typically considered rental income and treated as regular Schedule E rental income.My focus is on >30 days because that's where I see the least amount of pain per dollar. 

The cost is usually a fraction of google PPC.Direct mail has a longer turn around time, does not really have the "spontaneous-ness" of PPC, but when someone does reach out they are typically more qualified and tend to take action. 

I typically give my tenants a heads up when I plan to be doing work in the yard, but I don't think it is really necessary per terms of our Texas lease.

You might also want to keep an eye out for certain cities that have planned large improvements such as new schools and stadiums as they will spike up the tax rate in a higher percentage than typical.

It’s not your typical buying process and if you’re self financed and you plan on living in it, aka “House Hack,” you can benefit with low down pmt, low interest, seller concessions, and perhaps a reasonable construcrion loan if needed!

I typically only look in my local market since I self-manage at the moment.

They typically publish a list on their websites who they rep. 

@John West  As others mentioned, the full amount of the loan is typically reported.  

Typically, with 2 years of income, you can qualify for lending.

That being said, he can essentially pull from equity and just pay the taxes himself when he is ready.