Seeking guitar buying advice

I've been learning on a very inexpensive guitar, and I am ready to make a significant investment in a better one. I would like a small(ish) but not miniature sized acoustic. I am really attracted to Taylors for their player-centric design, but I am also weighing a Martin option. My priorities are (in order) playability, versatility (for both fingerpicking and strumming), and aesthetics. Here are the ones I am considering. I would love your advice! 

Taylor Academy 12e LTD

Taylor 812ce

Taylor 812ce 12-Fret

Martin SC-E13 Special

Congratulations on your progress. 

I can't comment on any of these because I have no experience. They are well respected makes/models is all I can say. 

Is there an opportunity in your area to try before you buy? I have several guitars and each has it's own feel. Some being more comfortable than others to play. 

I have ordered guitars in the past, my Goldtop being the last one. I actually don't enjoy playing it. Glad to have it because it's an icon and beautiful, but it rarely leaves the case. So I prefer to play them before I buy them. The one that feels the best comes home. 

Good luck shopping