I've been thinking about how to best utilize my current residence.

You get an estoppel from each tenant saying this is how much rent I’m paying, this is how big a security deposit I gave, here’s who pays for utilities, when my lease ends, etc etc. 

Or that they’ll be able to use a highly sophisticated technique that can really only successfully be utilized when all the stars align and in circumstances that occur irregularly and need to be recognized as such, always by an experienced real estate investor.  

You point to contractors suggesting specific mortar materials being used but can you identify in the building code a requirement that these recommended mortar materials are utilized?

Remember your costs will be more for an STR, you'll be paying for a lot of things you wouldn't with an LTR - higher STR insurance, all utilities including internet, supplies like toilet paper, paper towels, dishwasher detergent etc, upkeep on furniture and linens if damaged, yard maintenance and grass cutting/snow removal, trash removal, etc.  

Me, my partner, and our CTO are building a platform that utilizes AI for all people to sell and buy homes.

Utilizing bonus depreciation and cost segregation can be a great tax savings strategy. 

First step is to check with the city or county to find out what the zoning is and the allowable uses are and what is required for development in terms of lot coverage, setbacks, height restrictions, utilities, access easement, parking,  etc.

List all your known expenses (taxes, insurance, utilities, etc.)3.

Look at everything, from utilities, to landscaping, to property taxes etc to see where you can save.