I am seeing a trend of completing two units first and offering to move them into those.

They should be able to give you insight on market trends.

That keeps out the parties as best we can.. just know that some here dont agree with it (and check that it's ok in your city)- verify STRs are legal where you are and get the necessary permits and licenses- read a lot here on tips and tricks. 

The property manager should already be staying on top of market trends, and should be doing inspections of the unit once a year anyways to keep track of ongoing maintenance tasks.

As a multifamily syndicator, here is some of the data points that we look for in the deal, and in the market, in order to be sure that the deal is a good one:- Market Performance: Rent Growth, Market Vacancy, Long-Term Vacancy Average, Adverse Cycle Occupancy Bottom, Median Income, Employment Pool, Rent to Cost of Ownership, Income to Housing Cost Ratio, Market Rankings, Construction/Absorption Ratio, Pricing, Cap Rates, Trends in Capital Market, Etc. - Forecasted Market Performance of the Same- Property Specific Performance: Asking Rents, Actual Rents, Vacancy, New Lease Trade-Outs, Average Vacant Days, Lease Terms, Retention Rates, Renewal Trade-Outs, Sales Record, Renovations Completed, Market Comparable Amenities based on Class of Asset, Revenue, Rent Roll, Trailing 12 Months of Operating Expenses, Property Taxes, Property Insurance, Market Trends of Specific Floor Plans, Etc.

I might be playing to your bias as someone in the technology space, but given the secular trend of capital concentrating in technology companies, try to buy near their headquarters if you are looking for appreciation.

There is Only One True Indicator of how Covid is trending and that is hospital bed usage. 

---Are we seeing trends in these new ideas/materials anywhere or finding the market is not responding either?

Home shows featuring the newest home trends for 2020 showcased quartz counter tops of white, gray, slate and blue.Quartz is one of the best choices for durability as well.

What small businesses trends do people see expanding in our new reality?