So I always just look up my competitors listings and see what they're charging and how full they are....which amenities do they have, etc....You can double-check with the sites you mentioned, but to rely only on them would be foolish IMHO....

If you are good at self managing and know how to play the Airbnb/VRBO game with all the picture tricks, word gimmicks, amenities stuff and you are actively on their platforms, it seems to still be a viable market for the good investors. 

However, I am wary of the maintenance cost and added liability that comes with these amenities. 

Also look into apartment amenities requires (bbq pits, play area, tot lot, etc.)

You can use the website AffordableHousing.com and it will give you a rent reasonable-ness estimate of what you can rent your property for.The rent estimates vary by zip code, amenities, etc.

When people buy residential most often they buy off of feelings, layout, and amenities.

My knowledge is limited and there are obviously variables in location, size of units, amenities, expenses, TI, etc.

:) I have been renting a 2 bed 2 bath apartment in a luxury boutique highrise building with amenities galore and lake views in South Loop for 4.5 years.

  - Since it can be hard to determine who is using a PM and who isn't, we only focus on properties that are similar (same # of bedrooms, general same square footage, same amenities, same proximity to attractions).- We list the competitor properties down the rows in a spreadsheet. 

You will be familiar with the area, so you know the ins and outs of the neighborhood, including its amenities, schools, transportation, and safety concerns.