For example, let's say the property "can't" go Fannie because it isn't a complete & functional home, and let's suppose the reason for that is because the kitchen is not complete, and the reason the kitchen isn't complete is because it doesn't have an oven.Standard two choices that people think they have:Hard money, 2 points up front, 70% down, 3 points upfront, horrible rate.All cash.Third choice:With the seller's permission, throw a freaking $75 oven from craigslist in there the day before the appraiser shows up, and buy the SFH using Fannie financing at 85% LTV, no points. 

The layout and functionality of the home is going to have a larger impact on its rentability than forced air vs. wall heaters.Yes, make sure your lease is solid.  

The tenant has expressed multiple times the desire to change things (paint) but never actually did so I am taking this with a grain of salt and told her we would discuss again when she is ready to move forward.Whenever that tenant moves out, I would probably have to replace the current carpet due to age and mini blinds are also old (but functional), which is why I am considering the idea.In any case, I would be reviewing quotes, finances and contractor and figure out a way to make sure the work will be finished before I OK the change.

So I would still remove any carpet in bathrooms but only deep clean dirty carpet (if possible) and just make sure the kitchen baths are functional.  

In the last 16 years I have worked in various functions as it relates to finance, real estate and construction.

Clint - I think what Jay is saying here is that the form and function of your question reveals that you do not yet have the intellectual worth which would make you appealing to money.

I'm told that fridges are not worth repairing and to just replace them if they stop functioning.

My inspector suggested I insulate the crawl space of the home as it is where the furnace is located; however, it is an older (but functional) unit that will eventually be moved to the attic once it dies.

You can automate rent collection and other functions as well. 

No one knows; it's a function of interest rates and local market conditions.