But I don't fully understand how to interpret the data.

The charts aren't misleading, you just aren't interpreting the data properly.Do you think of your checking account as an investment?

My experience with CPA's, cost segs & interpretations: Tax code & tax forms are fairly formulaic. 

As the city works to try and figure out how to interpret and enforce these rules, I want everyone to be aware of some of the information out there right now.

Wow, lots of varying and in my mind, wrong interpretations here.Given, some states have some different wording about inspection contingencies.As Is only means that a seller is Not agreeing UPFRONT to do any repairs on items found needing to be repaired, typically those required to secure fha or conventional financing.....that is All it means.It does Not mean that a buyer can’t have an inspection and either walk away or ask for a price reduction as a result of items found in the inspection.As Is and an Inspection Contingency are not related to each other and are Not mutually exclusive (in the vast majority of markets).

I assume roles are open to interpretation and that outsourced help is acceptable so long that it is contracted.

My preference would be to read the actual regulation to insure that I agree with the interpretation presented in the various articles. 

But even if you did provide this information, the laws as so detailed, arcane, and subject to interpretation, as well as rife with exceptions, that it would be highly recommended that you engage the services of an experienced,  knowledgeable attorney specializing in real estate transaction law.  

I'm not asking for academic purposes, I'm actually not sure how to interpret this investor summary I am reading that features a huge IRR projection and full use of 100% of capital over four straight years, yet no cash flow in year 1.

Petersburg, short-term rentals are only allowed up to three times within any consecutive 365-day period, unless the property is within a zoning district that allows the hotel or motel use or a special “overlay” approval has been obtained.I do believe that 3-day limit is a misreading of the regulation, but since the authorities are the ones interpreting it that way, there's not much we can do!