also, how do I figure what type of counter tops,flooring,tiles, waterless tanks, etc, are better vs others as far as price and quality.  

Countertops, flooring, peeling wallpaper, paint, changing light fixtures, etc.

New countertops.  

on this one we did  on 7 new street with all the requirements there its almost triple to build.. but that one will have all sub zero wolf etc.. this one is just medium grade on appliance packages.WE sold one of our new builds in North Charleston to the family that owns the company that makes the custom counter tops though.. so those are cool and we got good pricing.. 

I replaced the bath fixtures, counter tops, all new flooring, paint, etc.

Wood paneling everywhere, pink 4x4 tile in the bathrooms, orange and green countertops, you get the picture.

We knew exactly what items we needed (including size and color, paint color schemes, countertops, etc.), and exactly what work was needed to create the vision, and we worked those costs into our construction estimate.However, you are talking about a House Hack or a BRRRR, in which case you just need to get the property into a habitable state, with some flourishes thrown in to make the place more homey and attract renters.

New mechanicals, new roofs, tile in all bathrooms/kitchens, granite counter tops, hardwood floors, huge walk-in closets, laundry rooms, open floor plans, new siding, new windows, spray foam insulation.

I plan on getting rid of/painting over all of the brown wood paneling in this house, replacing all of the flooring, rebuilding that small deck off the master bedroom, some minor landscaping, replace the garage and front doors, replace exterior door under deck, replace all light fixtures, update the kitchen (keep cabinets and paint them white with new pulls), paint the outside and add siding to the right side and back of the house (front and other side has siding already), change out bathroom sinks and countertops, paint all the cabinets in each bathroom, perhaps install walk in shower in big bathroom that has the tub.I plan on keeping the marble flooring in the entry way and try not to replace any windows.

The area has gentrified a bit more and now resurfaced counter tops are not enough to compete anymore as their competitors are getting granite.