I personally don't like STR's because they are more of a business than an investment(in my opinion).You didn't mention the amount of hours that you and your spouse work but I would have to assume it be between 1900 to 2200 hours assuming you work 48 weeks and between 40 to 50 hours a week.If you buy a STR and self-manage it, you are added 200-300 hours per year in additional work making your life more stressful and less time to do things that you enjoy.Best of luck. 

You can specify blackout dates when the property is not available for rent if you wish to use it personally during certain times of the year.Legal and Regulatory Compliance: The management firm will ensure that the property complies with local laws and regulations concerning rental properties, including obtaining any necessary permits and adhering to zoning laws.Maintenance and Repairs: Property management firms often take care of routine maintenance and emergency repairs, ensuring the property is well-maintained and ready for tenants or guests.This arrangement allows you to enjoy your second home for part of the year and generate rental income when you're not using it, with minimal effort on your part.

You need a pitch to win in a personal letter.

You are highly unlikely to curb the tenant's behavior because:1) It seems they've been doing what they want for a while and now feel entitled2) Your post shows you don't have the assertiveness necessary to deal with this situationSo, recommend you either hire an attorney to start the eviction process or handle a PMC.

It's more helpful to see the properties in person to get cap-ex, vacancy rates, etc.

Converting your single-family home into a rental property involves several considerations to protect yourself and ensure smooth operations: Establish an LLC:Liability Protection: Holding the rental property in an LLC can protect your personal assets from potential lawsuits related to the property.Tax Benefits: An LLC can offer tax advantages, such as pass-through taxation, where rental income is taxed at your individual income tax rate.Insurance:Landlord Insurance: Ensures coverage for property damage, liability claims, and loss of rental income.Umbrella Policy: Provides additional liability coverage beyond your landlord insurance, offering extra protection.Deductions:Mortgage Interest and Property Taxes: Continue to deduct these expenses.Depreciation: Depreciate the cost of the property over 27.5 years, excluding the land value.Maintenance and Repairs: Deduct costs related to maintaining the property.Property Management Fees: Deduct fees paid to the property manager.Filing Taxes:Schedule E: Report rental income and expenses on Schedule E of your tax return.Separate Accounts: Maintain separate bank accounts for rental income and expenses to simplify bookkeeping.Lease Agreement:Solid Lease Terms: Ensure your lease agreement is thorough, covering rent amount, due date, late fees, maintenance responsibilities, and eviction terms.Legal Review: Have the lease agreement reviewed by a real estate attorney to ensure compliance with local laws.Tenant Screening:Background Checks: Perform credit, criminal, and eviction history checks on prospective tenants.References: Contact previous landlords and employers for references.Property Management:Regular Inspections: Schedule regular property inspections to ensure it's being maintained properly.Maintenance Fund: Set aside a reserve fund for unexpected repairs and maintenance.Moving Out of State:Communication: Maintain open communication with your property manager.

PS not defending this person - I like to hear all sides.

I have personal relationship with the owner of the project.

I do not feel comfortable going back over there after how they acted during the inspection.Do you think they will have legal grounds to move forward with suing or rent escrow actions given the following circumstances 1) "as-is" language in the lease (pasted below); 2) nothing about smell is included on the pre-move-in inspection; and 3) the city inspector was already out and stated there was no violation?

Hope that helps...feel free to send me a message if you think that I can be a resource.