Many of these items were a small cost, but added a lot of aesthetic value to the new paint.

Aesthetics are SO important in the STR space.

Repaint, refinish floors, update aesthetics, fix imperfections/wear and tear, new appliances and landscaping.

From my vantage point as a contractor, all the big Architectural firms are run by lawyers and accountants -- other than awards and magazine covers, nobody at the top of the firm cares about aesthetics or quality -- it's all about maximizing profit and avoiding risk. 

I want to emphasize that the house is aesthetically attractive and it's in a sought after neighborhood.

The city should be considered with the functionality and safety of the roof, not the aesthetics.  

If you cannot make the numbers work for an A property in an A location, I would stick with the great location and look for a big of a fixer that will attract the great tenants once you make it more aesthetically appealing.

Is it reasonable to think that I could act as GC on a project of minimum scope (carpet, paint, minimal aesthetic upgrades, landscape etc...)?

Cort can be great because they sell off their older furniture that they no longer rent, but in my opinion the aesthetic looks just like a hotel and that is not what I'm going for so I stay away from them.

Also, I don't think most people like the aesthetic look of them, maybe someone can develop a solar shingle so it can blend in with the house better haha.