(3) Require 3+ references, and reach out to them (anyone can provide a list of names, and few people ever call after receiving the list)(4) Require proof of insurance and ask to be listed as "additionally insured" (you will be notified if the policy is modified or canceled)(5) Require proof of licensing and permitting (many contractors will say permits have been pulled when they haven't)(6) Research the company, owner, etc thoroughly online - you can learn a ton (social media, google reviews, Better Business Bureau, etc)(7) Trust your gut.

I could modify the wood on a table saw, but that's labor intensive. 

What is your experience when the tenant wants to modify the rental property himself?

Often if you are modifying a load bearing wall a permit may be required.  

I prefer non-section 8 because I can quickly modify the rental home to take advantage of the changing market place.

People love to make landlords and/or STR operators the "bad guy" and ban the short term rentals (see Boston, Cambridge, Somerville) but when they make AirBNB the bad guy, they (gen pop and politicians) dont address the real problem which is no new construction and major limitations in zoning or redevelopment.There is a way to have both STRs and a healthy housing market, but the problem is everytime someone tries to modify a dwelling or build a development all the NIMBYs pop up and kill it and then complain that rents and prices are going up. 

@Vic VeeramaniBeing able to utilize passive losses depends on your income level and your level of participation.You are eligible to use some passive losses from rental activities if you show active participation and your modified adjusted gross income is below $150,000

You have to be careful when setting this up to not over fund the paid up additions rider, otherwise the policy would be considered a MEC or Modified Endowment Contract, which is now a fully taxable policy.

You might want to modify these offers a bit to fit your needs as well.

Changing a neighborhood: You can "modify".