Go with a local/regional one, you’ll get much better service.  

The current area we are living in is very expensive (Boerne, TX) and is a heavily deed restricted region.

Each of these have their own attractions and draws and unique activities. 

Do you need unique checks and balances in your away market so someone is representing your interests in the away market--yes.Slow and steady wins the race.  

Now, we do live in a small town, touristy area that does lack in nicer/unique short-term rentals. 

I truly have a unique situation as one of my mentors mentioned so I am trying to see what the best decision to do with what I have is.

I don't have any answers for you Holli but I'm commenting so I get notifications when others reply to this as it sounds like a unique project and I'd love to hear more!

My business partner and I focus solely on making properties unique.

I agree with all of this HOWEVER I will say, if you have a unique product to offer to the market, you can attract even the highest quality tenants in the rougher areas, especially if they are secure properties that are close to downtown.

Local credit unions, big 5 banks, regional, everything in between.