Beach Rental in VA

[Sarah 'Sadika' J.]

Hello,

I'm purchasing a investment beach property to rent during the summer at Virginia Beach.  It's my first time buying a property so I'm a bit nervous as I have heard of horror stories dealing with renters.  What are top three tips you can offer regarding having a vacation rental?

Also, as I prepare to buy a property the next few months, how much emergency money should I safe for rainy days? How many months before I buy a house should I start buying household items (furniture, kitchenware etc.)?  How should i manage the cleaning aspect of the rental unit? I'm not sure if the Property Management company I looked at did cleaning. 

Thank you so much.