These promotions are designed to attract planners—guests booking 60+ days in advance—and can help you secure longer stays well ahead of time.Here’s why it’s worth it:More visibility – Get a special “Early Booking” badge in search results with 5% off or more.More control – Fill your calendar earlier and avoid last-minute gaps.Drive urgency – Reach travelers actively planning future trips by creating limited-time promotion they'll want to book now - not later.

Looking to learn from your experiences so I can better serve clients—and maybe help others here avoid common lender-related pitfalls too.Appreciate any insights you’re willing to share!

Due to growth and revenue.Why I avoid it: People love looking here for the prices, but you might get what you pay for being this far out with no attractions.KnightdaleCity Rules: STRs are not explicitly addressed, just hotels and b&bs.

Rookie mistakes to avoid include underestimating costs, using too much debt, and not building a solid network of experienced investors. 

Here's the sequence we typically follow:​🏗️ Interior Rehab SequencePre-Closing PreparationScope of Work: Conduct a thorough walkthrough to identify structural issues, outdated systems, and cosmetic updates needed.Budgeting: Develop a detailed budget, including a contingency for unforeseen expenses.Permits: Obtain necessary permits to avoid delays.​DemolitionSelective Removal: Remove outdated or damaged materials while preserving elements that can be reused.Site Preparation: Ensure the site is clean and safe for the upcoming work.​Structural Repairs & FramingFoundation & Framing: Address any foundational issues and modify framing as needed for new layouts.Inspections: Schedule inspections to ensure compliance with building codes.​Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) Rough-InsSystems Installation: Install or update HVAC, electrical wiring, and plumbing systems.Inspections: Conduct rough-in inspections before proceeding.​Insulation & DrywallInsulation: Install insulation to meet energy codes and improve efficiency.Drywall: Hang, tape, and finish drywall, preparing surfaces for painting.​Interior FinishesPainting: Apply primer and paint to walls and ceilings.Flooring: Install flooring materials, ensuring they are protected during subsequent work.Trim & Millwork: Add baseboards, crown molding, and other decorative elements.​Cabinetry & FixturesCabinets: Install kitchen and bathroom cabinets.Fixtures: Mount sinks, faucets, lighting fixtures, and hardware.​Appliances & Final TouchesAppliances: Install kitchen appliances and test for proper operation.Final Inspection: Conduct a thorough walkthrough to address any punch list items.​⏱️ Timeline & Efficiency TipsProject Duration: Aim for a 3–4 month timeline, adjusting based on project scope.Scheduling: Use project management tools to coordinate trades and avoid downtime.Communication: Maintain clear communication with contractors and suppliers to ensure timely deliveries and work completion.​📋 Tools & ResourcesProject Management: Utilize software like Trello or Asana to track progress and tasks.Checklists: Develop standardized checklists for each phase to ensure consistency across projects.Budget Tracking: Use spreadsheets or financial software to monitor expenses and stay within budget.​

Do you avoid them completely, or use other outreach methods like texting or mail? 

Beware of Too-Good-to-Be-True Applicants: Fraudulent applicants may: Offer to pay rent upfront, Rush the process, Pressure you to avoid checksBonus Tip for New Landlords:Trust your process, not your gut alone.

From what I’ve seen in other posts and market research, Columbus seems to have solid rental demand and relatively affordable entry prices, especially compared to many other metro areas.Here’s my current situation:I own one property here in Oxford that was our primary residence for 2 of the past 5 years.It’s currently on the market for sale, and we’re estimating around $160K–$180K in equity.Since it was our primary for 2+ years, we’re hoping to avoid capital gains tax using the IRS exemption.If it doesn’t sell, we’re looking into options to pull out some of that equity (HELOC, cash-out refi, etc.) to reinvest and grow our rental portfolio.

From a tax perspective, STR income is generally reported on Schedule E if you’re not providing hotel-like services, which avoids self-employment tax.

And regarding location, I'd avoid saturated markets and instead focus on underserved ones.