I noted the year-over-year increase in STR permits, the decrease in average nightly revenue, and the sentiment that economically-incentivized sellers would flood the market after this winter season (effectively increasing housing supply and decreasing prices).

Many cities in the NW will require a permit to cut those down I know where I live you cannot cut a tree without a permit and you need to get an arborist to write a report that the tree is a danger. from what i see I dont  think the arborist would need to go on the other property to do a report but leaners can stay that way for years and years. 

One that has strict STR permitting with exceptions for owner occupants would be a bonus.

Even though the house next door was able to get a permit for a sober recovery center doesn't mean you will be able to get one.

Our bids ranged from $10k to $25k for the same scope of work with permits.  

When you apply for a rental license do they look for un-permitted work?

Is it worth getting a permit and setting up a vending machine in a multifamily, with 10 or more units? 

Oh and dont think about STR's...Charlottesville, Waynesboro, Staunton, and Harrisonburg have been denying permits due to affordable long term rentals. 

One of my first orders of business is to start learning how to do market research so...Question- what is the best way for a newcomer to learn to conduct Market Research?

Both require a postal permit so the saving is gobbled up fast.