One avenue I would take is reaching out to these brokers and invite them to coffee stating you are looking to get into and learn the business, and would love to learn how they got started.

Take them to coffee.  

All states are different, but if you want to give someone who wants to be an investor the best advice it would not be to skip permits on a basement bathroom.

In that case, that wouldn't be an option to renew and I would present them with two options: 1) extend the current lease with updated market rate rent and new term (a true renewal option), or 2) you give them a new lease with terms you want, again with market rent.

Let me know next time you are out this way, I'd be happy to buy you lunch or a cup of coffee. 

At the end of the day, it is most people's goal to be an investor, not a contractor.  

Getting a STR right outside city limits will probably continue to be an option for the foreseeable future.

They mentioned that they are willing to pay a premium for a 6 month lease that most property owners charge.My question is what would be an appropriate premium for a 6 month lease if I am asking $1700/month for a 1 year lease?

The registered agent doesn't normally necessarily have to be an attorney or involved in any business transaction.

The room you have selected in your first screenshot would be an appropriate selection!