Investing in features like high-end appliances and modern designs yielded a higher ROI.

But I also like DIY design and drafting so YMMV.

@Christina Galdieri  A 1031 exchange is specifically designed for real property held for productive use in a trade or business or for investment.

Realize that you need to design around it.  

Builders can offer those crucial incentives, and the homes themselves often come with modern features and energy-efficient designs that make them even more appealing to buyers.Looking ahead, it’s clear that new-home sales will remain a bright spot in the housing market.

. - Furnishings and Design: Active vacation rentals are usually sold furnished, vacant homes are not.

Since I'm taking such a cash hit, I asked the sellers agent if they would be able to designate some portion of the sale price ($200k?)

., HVAC tune-up, plumbing fixes)Deep clean entire property pre-listingEstimated Cost: $5,000Total Estimated Renovation Cost: $145,000Project TimelineWeek 1-2: Planning and DemolitionFinalize design and materialsObtain necessary permitsBegin demolition (kitchen, bathrooms, floors)Week 3-5: Structural and Major InstallationsInstall new cabinets and countertops in kitchenComplete bathroom tiling and vanity installationRefinish or replace flooringWeek 6-7: Painting and FixturesPaint interior and exteriorInstall lighting, hardware, and plumbing fixturesWeek 8: Finishing TouchesLandscaping and curb appeal updatesDeep cleaning and stagingTotal Timeline: 8 Weeks*This link comes directly from our calculators, based on information input by the member who posted.

Quality of property (newly remodeled, special charm, design) = less headaches with guests 2.

Curb appeal for higher-end properties will be much more important, especially when it comes to marketing - most ads and main listing photos feature the front of the property.In this case, I would consult with a professional - i.e. landscape designer or stager.