Maybe I need my cleaner to light up outside, walk in with smokey clothes, and see if that sets it off.

Probably a light sanding, a coat of stain, and about 3 coats of clear will make them shine!

The window must have a net clear openable area of 5.7 square feet (5.0 square feet if ground floor), a minimum openable height of 24 inches, a minimum openable width of 20 inches, and the bottom of the opening must be within 44 inches of the floor.Size: The room must be at least 70 square feet, and no less than 7 feet in any horizontal dimension.Lighting & Ventilation: A natural light source (window) of not less than 8% of the floor area and natural ventilation (openable window/door) of at least 4% of the floor area are required.Heating: The bedroom must have heating capable of maintaining a minimum room temperature of 68°F.Smoke Detector: A smoke detector is required in each sleeping room.While a closet is expected in most bedrooms, the International Residential Code does not actually require a bedroom to have a closet.

Good cash on cash returns take some work, like raising rent over time, doing light value adds, etc..If you jump in and insist on high cash on cash returns from day one you may find yourself in a tough neighborhood.  

By doing some of the work, you can stretch your budget to cover more improvements, thereby boosting the property’s market value and monthly rents.Tips for Building Your DIY SkillsStart Small: Begin with simple projects, like fixing a leaky faucet or installing a new light fixture.

New flooringFresh paintPainted cabinetsRefinished shower surroundshardware and light fixtures What was the outcome?

I thought I'd light a beacon so to speak to see if any investors/ landlords (and those thinking of becoming so) would care  to meet up as a group for coffee once a week.

Completed renovated one unit and did a light renovation to the other.

Replace the blinds, get rid of the carpet, change out the light fixtures, and do a fresh coat of paint.

Light renovation of the kitchen and should be able to see increase of rent of $250-$300 month.