If you lack the development expertise you're probably going to need to attract a co-founder that knows this side of the business well. 

I am hoping it makes my offer more attractive in a highly competitive real estate market.

Just in general, you can just lower the price, offer some incentives, and/or make the property more attractive, and buyers will show up.

Starting a new STR company sounds great, but at a time when the existing ones are struggling to attract customers, seems impractical.

The property is 20 minutes SE of DTLA and can honestly say you're less than 30 min to major attractions (beach, Disneyland, Rams stadium, 3 Cal States).

Refinancing when the rates are low is always attractive, but you are the only one who can determine if it's where you want to go.

Anything additional (i.e. laundry, dishwasher, high-end finishes) will give your apartment more appeal and likely attract more buyers but it may not necessarily translate to a higher purchase/appraised value.Hopefully this helped.Best of luck to you moving forward!

I think the shutdowns will need to go on for a few more months before they put a real dent in prices, and most restaurants/attractions in all of my markets are set to open as early as next week, and in the coming weeks.I have had a few clients come to me to panic sell, but we aren't at a point yet where sellers are willing to accept panic sale prices.

Does it really make a difference when attracting tenants?

It is both visually attractive as well as clean and safe.