Finding uncommon value in rehabs

[Glenn Espinosa]

While deployed with the military, I've spent this time reading and researching new ways to grow my rehab business upon my return. I've typically followed a similar formula to Jscott's in that I want to have a better house than the competition (eg. upgraded finishes, etc.) priced below the competition. In doing this I've accepted a lower profit margin while simultaneously enjoying very short market time and faster turnover of capital.

This formula has worked for me and I don't plan to stop anytime soon. I am, however, looking into the future and am hoping to corner my market in a rehab niche per se. The ideas I've been looking into include:

A) Going semi green (at minimal cost) and reaping the marketing benefits. I'll focus on cost effective solutions such as opening up south facing windows, installing rain barrels, predigging a garden bed, water saving toilets/faucets, tankless water heaters. etc.

B) Adding value by developing inlaw suites and basement apartments. This will allow me to attract buyers who wouldn't normally be approved for the home without the rental income factor.

C) Senior citizen friendly homes. Homes strictly rehabbed to maximize the safety of senior citizen who chose to age at home. I am thinking about marketing this to seniors looking to downsize into a safer home as well as children who want to move their parents into these type of homes. The main renovations would include wider entryways, non slip baths with handle bars, kitchen designs that minimize reaching, etc. This one seems like a stretch because the market for this type of house would be limited. Is there even a viable market for this?

I know these ideas are still highly dependant on the situation be it the house layout, location, cost analysis, etc. but in general how do these ideas sound? Far fetched? Viable? These are just a few thoughts that have ran through my mind the past few months while on this deployment. Any thoughts and/or further ideas are greatly appreciated!

Thanks

Glenn

(Double post, I posted the original in the wrong forum, please delete)