Several of my STR investor clients here in Colorado have used a designer, and they generally pick a few statement pieces that they spend money on and then go with FB marketplace  or even IKEA for smaller items. 

Is it a popular area for STRs?

Hi - you sound like a perfect candidate for the "DSCR Loan" option - its the loan type thats popular wwith investors and one of the big reasons why is the exact situation you are describing - running into DTI troubles. 

(In MOST cases) With permitted work, you are required to file an affadavit that the value of the work being done to a FEMA designated Flood Zone property is not worth more than 50% of the assessed value of the home.

The problem was completely operator error on my part and website design on theirs.

Make a Rolodex of them for later.2 - Complete your design plan - i.e. take measurements and come up with a plan. 

Do we want every phone call going to a designated person and they can contact our handyman etc - OR - do we want to continue taking these calls?

If it wasn't so, the current typical popular model wouldn't even exist. 

It was great to put pen to paper on the designs Ive pinned for so long and to see it come together in the end. 

It is the most popular software in the industry, and most Tax Preparers are familiar with it, which makes tax season easier.My Recommendation: Spreadsheets are usually fine for your first 1-3 properties. 3+ properties, you should use a software.