They don't mind.

I’d love to connect with like-minded investors locally and learn more about their experiences with HMLs.Thanks again for your time and help!

Aside from that the biggest value add areas I see are as follows: Kitchens, Bathrooms, decks/patios (if added), additional rooms/bathsKitchens and bathrooms tend to be the go-to, but all of those can help you get the most bang for your buck. just keep in mind that if the area is already of high quality, then it may not be the best area to spend the money vs something that is blaringly in need of an update.

To make the job flow easier, but also (mainly) to protect myself if a customer changed their mind later ( which was common).

Like Covey wrote, begin with the end in mind.

Going down the Tiny home path is more like starting a new business than RE investing in my mind. 

The main thing to keep in mind as a true investor is, can you simply add square footage to the main property to get the same sale price if you're planning to sell the property.

Mind Excess Business Loss Rules.

No one in their right mind is going to file a lawsuit over 2k.. they may and should just take you to small claims and or as Greg stated file their lien and wait.Also work done to YOUR satisfaction is a pretty weak argument and totally subjective.

Have a few areas in mind that typically have good options.