There are a couple new services like airbnb coming on line targeted soley at 30 plus day rentals ministays and something else I can't recall but not much more than a blip at the moment.You're correct that the way fees are distributed between host and guest is changing, but not the overall cost of the rental for the guest, so it's really just a shell game. 

. - Is there a more cost effective way to distribute heat and a/c to the units individually?

They bake it, distribute it, the manage this thing called the dollar. 

Some funds may be able to provide a distribution based on refinance proceeds in 2026 to help with that, but in today's interest rate environment it can be risky to count on that so it's best to expect to pay the taxes from other funds.- The OZ tax savings are significant (often in the 35 to 40%) range, but you don't want the tail to wag the dog. 

Yeah I want to expand my portfolio to more non-STRs but want to know if I reach the hour requirements in my non-STR portfolio, would being self employed, paying myself a W2 salary (but most of my income is from shareholder distributions be an issue? 

China is no longer the world’s low cost producer and all of those production facilities have to make a move along with the distribution channels.

If you’re mainly looking for distribution (Airbnb → VRBO, Booking.com, etc.,) they’ll do the job without too much overhead.I’d suggest checking which one integrates best with the tools you already use (calendar, messaging, payments).

You'll be able to meet a lot of professionals / other investors who will be able to help walk you through the banking / loans / taxes of everything.You can also try to network with wholesalers and get on their distribution lists but I'd recommend caution going this route.

LLC really only help liability derived from contract disputes IMO

Pay close attention to track record, years of experience across leadership team, the markets they invest in and whether or not they have a history of capital calls or pausing distributions.