I would RUN from this 'Contractor', his attitude is bad and you will have other issues with him I would bet...

Networking and asking others in your market may be your best bet.

Sleek, stainless-steel appliances and durable, easy-to-maintain materials like quartz or granite are always safe bets.

It just sorta pulled me away from what I was best at, especially when I was clocking in at my engineering gig trying to progress my career.A bunch of folks on these forums cover the whole spectrum, from newbies to 1m net worth plus investors.

High-demand areas with strong economic growth and low vacancy rates are typically safer bets.

If that's not what you're looking for, Carrot sounds like a better bet (I'm not familiar with that product, just from what people are saying).

I am looking for a property that fits my short term rental business needs, so far sticking with properties that are unincorporated and not part of any HOA are the best bet for the longer term.

Your best bet is to list it in the open market (MLS) with a local agent, with the option of furnished or not, and be prepared to have to clear it out should a buyer not be interested in your personal items. 

Would love to follow your progress on this topic.

I really see Columbus Ohio as an extremely safe bet for the next 10-20 years.