Learned a lot about the process while property is under contract (coordinating home inspections, appraisals, getting documentation to the lender, etc) I should have locked in my interest rate two weeks ago before they shot up recently!

Keep logs of your time spent on bookings, cleaning coordination, and maintenance.If you do that, yes, converting a small boutique hotel into STR units can be a powerful tax play with big upfront write-offs.

Or are these two completely separate things that do not coordinate together?   

But numbers on a screen don’t replace:Negotiation leverage – A seasoned agent knows how to structure terms, not just price, to win deals.Boots on the ground – Someone has to physically verify property condition, meet inspectors, and ensure you’re not inheriting hidden problems.Local market insight – Zillow comps are not always accurate.Transaction management – Coordinating title, contractors, appraisers, tenants, and property managers takes systems and experience.For out-of-state investors, paying an agent’s fee isn’t just about MLS access, it’s about protecting your investment, avoiding costly mistakes, and maximizing ROI.

Here are a few ways I use them for long-term rentals:Tenant Communication: handling inbound calls, screening applications, scheduling showings, and following up.Property Management Support: coordinating with contractors, managing maintenance logs, and tracking work orders.Back-Office Work: bookkeeping, updating QuickBooks, rent collection records, and reporting.Marketing & Listings: creating property listings, posting on rental sites, and monitoring inquiries.The biggest success comes from training them on your exact systems, not expecting them to build it for you.

That gives them enough time to ask questions or coordinate funds, but still keeps things moving.

And when a property is tenant-occupied, strategy and diplomacy matter even more.Selling without a realtor is definitely possible, but it puts all the heavy lifting on you: pricing, disclosures, showings, coordinating with tenants, and making sure buyers actually have the right expectations.

I will send you a message so we can coordinate a good time to connect.  

You'll also want to coordinate with your estate plan, and consider getting an estate plan if you do not yet have one in place.These are all things you will want to discuss with your attorney and CPA.

Stephanie Semple in Admin as the Transaction Coordinator was near perfect in timing and execution and always there immediately to aid.