My kitchens are simple and galley-style, so it shouldn't be too complex, but I was wondering if anyone has had a good experience working with any local installers / contractors to install countertops for a reasonable price.

You could make an offer with a due diligence period to give you a chance to get inspections, and check for any environmental issues (cars leaking fuel, oil, etc... could be an issue). 

Pitch Anything is a wonderful book on this topic that presents a very different pitch style than you're probably accustomed to.

Just to level set, @Daniel Haggar, there are 3 separate gas-fired, tank-style water heaters.

Currently -- and likely going forward -- this style of Airbnb is totally allowed.

I have the first 2 years free(dad works there) and planning to major in environmental science.

In short, you should focus on major electrical, plumbing, foundational, structural, or environmental factors only if you want your best bet of negotiating down the price.

@Brian Burke you and I have the same style.  

My goal is to supplement my income sufficiently that I no longer have to work OT shifts and can enjoy a comfortable life style with my wife while living in Southern California.My interests in real estate are rental properties for both long term holding and short term rentals, multi-families, and flips.

We “rotate” our investment styles to match the economic conditions of the time.