That trend is visible over the years.  

Honestly, I am tired of it and I need to inform officials so we can reverse the negative trend.  I

So you may as well add new kitchens, baths, maybe a roof, probably a hot water heater, maybe an HVAC, maybe siding and Windows, definitely floors unless you go tile... to the "cash flow" model if your looking long term or expect to lose in appreciation rates relative to the guy up the street that just sold brand new trendy stuff. 

The unfortunate trend is those are going away so the question is, how many jobs from small business will it take to equal or offset the other jobs that are leaving.

However, that trend is starting to shift. 

It's very normal, even trendy for people nowadays to focus on fitness, diet, mental health, work life balance, friends, family.

Also, any ideas why the general vacancy trend is rising over the years?

Not my clients investments, not what other agents are selling, not what is trendy but solely based on my personal experiences in Memphis! 

The trend is getting worse by the month and so we want to move ahead with eviction.

First, check out this article: https://www.al.com/news/index.ssf/2018/10/airbnbs_largest_alabama_market.htmlIt highlights state trends with Airbnb and that the trend is a positive outlook for legislation to go in your favor for hosting.