Design is the only thing separating villagers of the same personality type (though now there are 2 subtypes for each personality, but it only affects a small portion of dialogue when you reach high friendship), so it makes sense that the villagers with unique or interesting designs tend to be more popular. Certain species also tend to be more popular than others, especially the cats and wolves, so that also plays into popularity. Raymond was basically created to be super popular, so it's no surprise that he's ubiquitous (even I have him on my island, despite thinking he was ugly when NH first dropped).
Just from the ones you listed, Punchy, Ankha, Marshal, Sherb, Raymond, and Lolly are all mega popular and I'm sure they will be common sights when visiting Dream Suites. Even Roscoe has his own cult following. It goes without saying, but popular villagers are popular for a reason. Of course everyone has their own personal taste, but it should be no surprise when people gravitate towards these villagers. Most people probably wouldn't choose Limberg over a more popular cranky like one of the wolves/Apollo/whoever else. I get that everyone wants to feel unique and stand out, but I also don't like when I see people shame others for having a town full of popular villagers (not that you're doing this ofc; I just mean in general). My opinion on the matter is to just let people do their own thing because it doesn't affect anyone else. As long as it makes them happy, then who cares what someone does with their own island? They paid $60 to play the game however they want.
Sorry for the wall of text lol.
