The OP even states open floorplan "photograph well" and photographs are a major determining factor when a guest books a place to stay.That said, all of the STR's I own are BRRR and were older fixer uppers with odd layouts which made them less desirable making for a better deal for me :)

Is there a desire out there to get more direct bookings, or is that considered too complicated?

The Tenant Profile: A Crucial First StepBefore purchasing any property, you must ask key questions about your potential renter pool:- Location: Is your property in a college area, a traditional single-family neighborhood, or an area with desirable walkability to jobs and shopping?

Thoughts/experience in how this has affected the rentability/desirability for tenants and vacancy for you guys.

I'm curious - what is driving the desire to reduce premiums?

In our experience, architectural shots rarely rank well unless they show expansive views, a beach, a trout stream, or desirable exterior amenities. 

Hi Iyana,Pleasure and honor to have you inside our community.What do you desire to build?

I live in South Louisiana but I have no desire to focus in this area. 

Look just outside of desirable areas.

Pretty desirable for renters - not everyone wants to share a wall between their spaces with neighbors. 2.