Them splitting it up is an ethics issue.

Have your attorney send your contractor a letter explaining your dissatisfaction, any legal, ethical, or moral violations his operating methods result in, and making him an offer BELOW your “target” amountbest of luck I have an attorney that I considered speaking with on this matter, but I’m not sure that he specializes in things like this.

So, the KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid) principle applies.

Now onto the real estate...If you truly want to protect yourself against STR regulations only purchase property with the intent of  operating as an STR where these three principles apply: (1) the use is allowed, (2) the use requirements are protected by in place permitting and licensing and (3) the permissions are transferable through a sale.

Million ways to make great money in RE, but communication and work ethic are paramount. 

More than happy, to turn this into a positive relationship with you.I’m here to help everyone—including you—achieve more success with motivated seller lead generation, wholesaling ethically, running a business, and any other areas where I can share my expertise.So, I propose we put this bickering aside and focus on providing real value.

These same principles should be applied to anywhere you choose to invest.

I was an investor and after 10 years I couldn't find an ethical and knowledgeable agent. 

This example, principle $ 92,xxx, 10 year term at 10 percent interest.

These are professionals with additional training and a stricter code of ethics.