Of course, this could an "in-law suite" but if you do it and your neighbors get pissed and call you in, you could be in trouble.But assuming neither is an issue, it could very well be worthwhile to finish, if you have the means.  

Moves the needle a bit but not enough to make it worthwhile IMO.

It looks like you've been in contact with the seller and may have a gauge on their true desire to sell, which can help you determine whether the $600 for an appraisal is money wasted or a worthwhile risk.My supposition is the appraisal will come in higher than your offer, which will likely embolden the seller to stick to the appraised value or higher.

It's important to not let rent fall too far under market rent (for resale, for cash flow, etc), but it is worthwhile to reward goodstanding tenants with a lighter increase than you would use for a new tenant. 

There are a few different issues to consider here.One key issue is the timing, getting mortgage approval, and another issue is the overall cost.If you are looking to buy a house to live in right now, then getting the 5% down payment might be worthwhile.

Based on your experience, it sounds like a worthwhile conversation for you to discover if HMLs or private lenders can help you grow your investment plans. 

Has it all been worthwhile?

Or even if you had extra money lying around, basically you’re planning a flip, which is rarely worthwhile for the first house (or few) anyone does.

I can see where it might be worth while when interest rates are 6-7% and the HELOC is substantially lower....but at the rates they are now I personally don't see much of a point...the benefit of the leveraged debt being so cheap now is to be able to earn more on your money elsewhere.   

The deal isn't worthwhile.