Since the property is a family heirloom, it will certainly give you piece of mind from far away.Definitely get commercial/STR insurance to replace your homeowners policy.I furnish with thrift store finds, It gives a higher end look,greater durability with a low price point.

I have used the thermafoil white cabinets but I don't find them long-term durable; the laminate starts delaminating pretty quickly. 

That said I still have 2 problems, the roof is still flat, and I'm not sure about the durability of a flat EPDM roof.  

Durable as well.

For sanitary reasons, I want those floors sealed and under three good coats of extremely durable oil-based semi-gloss polyurethane.

Try and make it durable for tenants by getting rid of carpet, having fenced yards because people love their pets and will pay extra to have them.This could be as good or better than the military pension if you were to serve 20 years.I didn't start amassing my rental portfolio till I after I retired from the military.

I would put in lower mid grade durable materials, no carpet, finish the hardwood. 

. -- I agree.I'm always for durability (granite, ceramic tile, etc.) as well and, although there are some great composite materials out there, having to replace things after a few years of wear-and-tear will be more expensive in the long run. 

I’ve been using an inexpensive but durable laminate flooring.

Advice Needed: I gave my contractor very specific instructions that I wanted Dura-Core Plank flooring installed because of its durability.