For instance, "I'm sorry, but our policy is that we don't allow portable washing machines in any of our units."

Fish tanks, computer equipment, lighting, heating pads, portable air conditioner, electric blankets, power tools, just on and on. 

I am going to look into getting portable alarms for my vacant units.

I was debating between a mini split unit, heating/cooling window unit or a portable space heater.

My PM immediately got a portable AC while reporting to home warranty for repairs 2.

We are turning the 2 car garage into a theater room, redid much of the flooring in the house, added a sauna, etc.

Because if the mechanicals need protection from the locals, the renters must feel the need for protection from them also.Just my 2 cents. the issue with dogs is the windows are removed and the metal window coverings have holes in them to allow circulation. so in the winter in Chicago its freezing in those houses so they have to use portable lights and portable heaters to work inside.. its truly a shame that its come to this for rehabbers and builders..

Here is what I proposed:Setup fees : Administration Setup:One Time Fee: $400Guidebook: Using professional photos give the guests a professional tour of the house and how the home works (Wifi passwords // How to use grill // How to use propane fireplace // Hot tub instructions // Sauna instructions //Check in and check out instructions //where extras may be storedOTA (Online Travel Agency) setups: taking professional photos and actively updating your listing on popular platforms;PMS (Property Management System) Setup Smart Pricing Set upWebsite integrationOther (furniture arrangement / design / décor shopping and set up) $50 per hour· Placement fees · Marketing Cost: Variable depending on needs/wants for marketingFacebook AdsGoogle Ads Cleaners: Set up procedures/take pics of expectations· Management fee—30%Guest communicationCleaner communicationSetting Rental rateDealing with small maintenance issuesBooking CoordinationSmart Lock integrationKeeping supplies stocked (TP, paper towel, all cleaning products, coffee, filters, creamer, sugars, teas,)(Receipts would be submitted on a monthly basis for either reimbursement or book keeping purposes)Encouraging guests to leave good reviews by periodically checking in, providing a review template, and ensuring guests receive the amenities they are looking forContinued marketingMajor Maintenance fees—OwnerCleaning and laundry services fees: Cleaning fee to the guest depending on how cleaner wants to charge

Memorial Day to Labor Day will pretty much take care of itself, but adding in amenities like a hot tub and a sauna will help you draw in more traffic and bookings even when there's a foot of snow on the ground.Just to touch on the LTR option, I don't know if this would get you the kind of returns you'd be looking for to even cover your mortgage, let alone cover any maintenance/capex/management costs the property might require. 

The highest performing short-term rentals have a design eye, their photographs weren't shot by an amateur's iPhone, and they offer more than one extra that others aren't (hot tub, sauna, views...).Create a differntiated Airbnb, and you'll outperform others ... be that first page or second or third.