When we asked “what they were currently doing, what they planned to do, and how we could help.”

We just closed on a $550,000 home and plan on renting the duplex out.

We are planning to rent it out as an STR when we are not there.

Please take a minute and shoot some holes in this plan, if there are any.

Hi Linda - your services make a lot of sense for someone who is trying to go the MTR route, however if they are just now buying a house in today's dollars and rates, and setting it up as a MTR, it may be hard to substantiate a few thousand dollars to pay a third party to do the set-up after they just spend tens of thousands, or potentially hundreds of thousands on a house DP in Raleigh + furniture.I think the fundamentals work for someone who's owned it a while, has made great cash flow, and who has been thinking about converting from LTR to MTR, and just doesn't want the hassle of set-up and marketing but wants the returns.

The plan for that is either rent out my room or convert it to a sober living facility.

Our area is not unique, this is a nationwide issue (opportunity) for accounting firms.In the end I think many would be well served to think of their CPA/EA as they do an attorney - while they can also help provide planning advice to better structure your tax life and save some money, a portion of the cost is just a cost of doing business - you are required to be compliant by the Feds / states / etc, and the CPA/EA is insurance to ensure you get it right and stay out of their way.

I’m also curious because I’m trying to plan out my purchase later this year, and exploring all options. 

In a competitive situation, this isn't always possible or the best recommendation, but in most circumstances you should try and plan for it.First step in due diligence - > PROBING QUESTIONS! 

They can provide ideas of how to do things cheaper, re-use materials where appropriate, etc.Proper planning and foresight of a project.