Or was that just a local trend at a specific time?

I've been following the trends.

Floor tiles can also be used on the walls and, in fact, they often are, for a variety of reasons:Floor tiles are generally larger, so those who want large tiles on their walls will likely choose a floor tile.There’s a growing trend of running the floor tile up the walls of the bathroom to create a dramatic, minimalist look.Floor tiles come in more colors, shapes, sizes, and textures than wall-only tiles.Highly polished tiles on the walls are another design trend that’s hot in 2019, but it’s hard to find highly polished wall tiles.All of that said, it’s important to understand that not all floor tiles can necessarily be installed on all walls.

On the market: population growth 20%+ since 2000, income growth 30%+ since 2000, single family home value growth 40%+ since 2000, down trending crime rate (city-data.com index below 500), unemployment at or below national average, jobs growth of 2-3% annually.On the property: 16%+ IRR with the following assumptions: 75% LTC, economic vacancy of at least 10%, rent growth 3%, expense growth 2%, property taxes are based on 90% of the purchase price (TX-specific), current rents are $200+ below the market, exit cap rate is above historical average.

This seems like a good idea that is trending in the right direction. 

the trend these days is NO aromatics of any kind.

With the current CA trend of shutting down AirBnB's, I personally don't feel comfortable building a model that uses that strategy. 

It doesn't appear that county ordinances are keeping up with the latest alternative building trends.

I've been browsing the local MLS just to see which areas are trending, etc. 

What are some resources to see how an area is trending, crime rates, and if it’s easy to rent in.