However, I'm curious if anyone has recommendations for timely, affordable, and investor-friendly contractors that are great with bathroom remodel, putting in counter tops / cabinets, and drywall patching / repair.

After closing, I put in new kitchen appliances, new cabinets, countertops, replaced upstairs carpeting with LVP, and did some work in the crawl space.

In the kitchen, if you can save cabinets then putting on new countertops is one of the quickest and relatively cheapest ways to upgrade. 

This summer we're planning on refacing the kitchen cabinets, new counter tops and sink.

Flooring, countertops, paint, ceiling fans, stole all the mini blinds, ect...They considered that "normal wear and tear" and denied the claim.I then get a letter saying they are dropping coverage for too many claims thus putting me on a wild goose chase for insurance 1 month before my annual renewal. 

Two tone paint, better counter tops, new bathroom grout, clean rust stained toilets, laminate vinyl flooring that should last longer than carpet, etc. better landscaping.

Even the decrease in 10% rent can have adverse effect on cashflow.I am also open to do a cosmetic repair where I can improve some of the stuff to compete with newer homes in the area (say granite countertops and stainless steel newer appliances).

So where are people buying their granite countertops in San Antonio Texas?

I did a full gut renovation on a triplex.The day after granite countertops were installed over the brand new cabinets on floor 2, in this secured property ...

This is challenging but doable.Having said this, globally-speaking, what I know is how to rent a nice unit, with new cabinets, granite countertops, and stainless appliances.