However, the inspector mentioned that the 2nd and 3rd floors are labeled as "Artist Dwellings," though he wasn’t sure what that fully entails.He suggested applying for a special permit to present the space as artist studios or dwellings, with the hope of eventually converting them into long-term rental (LTR) apartments under that designation.

You could find a partner to help establish an LLC that rents out your property long term, then subleases on a short term basis (master lease is one that is designed for subleasing, it is a way many people pick up STRs without actually purchasing any property, they just find owners who are okay with them subleasing on a STR basis). 

I believe you either do the simple 27.5 yrs depreciation yourself or hire a tax pro, but the latter option is not guaranteed to pay for itself. 

Model to Image - Some apps such as Veras connect to your Sketchup/Rhino/Revit software and can directly render simple masses into final results.

I am a business intelligence pro & designer who is a host and passionate about STRs.

Please note the information provided below is a layman's definition designed to provide a basic understanding for the general audience.

Please note the information provided below is a layman's definition designed to provide a basic understanding for the general audience.

I use a very non scientific $20 per foot for furnishing which includes a designer. 

This was the ideal value add situation, where I didn't have to change much on the layout.. mostly just design.

I'd then be paying my heloc off at 1.75% simple interest rather than the original mortgage loan with 4% compounded interest.