Best ways to add value before refinancing?

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Hey everyone,

I’ll be cash out refinancing on my first property in order to invest in my second. The property is a duplex, and I’m now thinking it may be a good idea to do some work before the refinance in order to add value. What are some of the best ways to ensure the house will appraise higher and pay off in the end? I’ve never rehabbed a property so this is new to me.

Obviously it depends on the property, so some areas I’m thinking can be improved are window replacements, exterior painting or interior painting. The appliances are already fairly new. Also, there is a detached garage that is completely run down and unused. Could be turned into another unit, but that’s a bigger project than I can take on right now. However, it’s basically wasted space at this point and is about 1000 sf or maybe more.

Thank you!