In many cases I think the financial upside with STRs can justify increased tenant-screening costs, and potentially even some revenue-sharing mechanisms with neighbors.In some areas, the government collects a tourism tax from guests, mitigating strain on local resources.

I consider myself pretty plain and I just don't see where the extra cost is justified.  

I can see this justified in several ways. 

If so i can justify investing in the property.If i can get the funds to pay seller B and fund the rehab, im good to go.

Obviously the market and economy have gone nuts since then... but I throw it out there to justify my "It's an OK deal" thought. 

One tenant is justifiably skeptical that his voice will be heard.

Fees should be clearly stated in writing, easy to understand, and justifiable.

The interesting thing about this is, you could justify it if you and your wife were separated/divorcing.  

I have been trying to get into New construction - specifically 2-4 units in my area, but I can't seem to justify the numbers and when the numbers are justified, there is almost always zoning push back.

The costs to build new will simply exceed the value of the nearby housing, making the appraisal of such a project nearly impossible to justify the costs.Unless your rolling in cash, you would need a construction loan for the build.