Some tenants even sort based on sub-structure so just making sure all of the details are as precise as possible. 

I'm a CT based investor myself. 

I don't immediately see any reason that their basic home value and rent indexes should be considered fundamentally flawed based on that connection.

With 179 you are going to be limited based on your percentage of business use with the vehicle (so still need to track mileage), and if you go under 50% business use you can end up with a recapture of your prior 179 deduction - income with no related cash flow is always a bit uncomfortable!

Another thing to consider is are you basing the 3x rent on her initial application? 

I wouldn’t purchase a STR property anywhere it wouldn’t work as a MTR or LTR unless its local economy is based on STR.

You are basing your claim of damage solely on the time the seals lasted not on the type or cause of the damage.

Don't base it on one data point that is not available :) good luck

Based on what did end up in the house, she spent very little on actual decor for the house.

Based on my experience, it’s often not worth the time and expense because appeals frequently lead to no change in the tax assessment.