They often make decisions that are popular with their constituents but not really in the best interest.  

Besides this, rather boring, pastime of writing code, I also happen to be extremely passionate about real estate, more specifically multifamily and I decided to launch a new project to develop an MVP of software solution that is tailored to the needs of property managers. 

Propstream is a pretty popular platform and you can also try Invelo.

I've been hearing about this and understand it's popular in other countries and only starting in the USA.  

They can guide you and give advice  on what they see is popular or "up and coming"...often, they hear of properties that are going to go on the market before they hit the market (some "for sale by owners").Keep learning at BP, keep asking questions, read the BP books.

When you do renovate, what are the long-term plans with it to have it stand out in such a popular market?

Now, this is a very popular one and yes timing does help a ton; however, Cash Flow is also a very good indication.

It seemed like it was popular, because in the photography bubble it was all the rage. 

In other words a popularity contest. 

Overall, this is a popular strategy in the Midwest for converting large old homes into multifamily units.