Either way- as a couple others have said- it's really easy to lose your shorts by trusting someone in the hopes that they can save you a few bucks and not really knowing them or having anyone to help you with keeping an eye on things or with possible recourse. 

LOS and drive up the prices for that weekend, however, keep an eye on the average daily rate in your area.Which channels do you use btw?

Building relationships with the neighbors are great because they can be your eyes and ears on the ground if it's a rental and report any issues to you.

I guess what I'm looking for is a realtor, leasing agent/manager or maybe even interior designer, to look at the units (online or in person, whatever is easier) with a fresh set of professional eyes, to tell me if something is wrong with the units....or my leasing team.

Marissa,By allowing pets you increase the potential pool of tenants.We allow (with limitations, no vicious breeds) pets.Get a non refundable "pet Deposit" and charge monthly "pet rent, or just increase the base rent amount.Pet lovers don't bat an eye at these charges and they tend to stay longer in my  experience.

I guess the degree of speculation is in the eye of the beholder.

No--the powers that be have turned a blind eye for 3 years now.

Keep your eyes peeled by an announcement.

the investor exclaimed eyeing the fish, "Do you realize how many fish you could catch if you stayed out a little longer?  

It made my eyes water.