:https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/52/topics/680...Without providing a laundry list, I think the theme is to tackle the wear points and troubleshoot the individual unit.For example, start at the door (door mat to catch debris, good functioning new lock, perfect close and open, door stop) and work through each room with that level of detail ( example: Bathroom: new shower curtain, bath mat, caulk, new toilet flapper or overhaul kit inside, strong towel bars, etc.)I would focus first on the low cost items that can prevent larger problems (your doorstop type theme) and then also evaluate any larger item close to the end of its useful life, especially if showing signs of problems (be it hot water heater, worn flooring, or an appliance). 

We have a local supplier who provides a couple of lines of cabinets (made offshore) which have plywood boxes and soft closers at a very reasonable price.  

The master bathroom will also have a hardwired towel warmer for 10 towels, and a ceiling mounted rain shower and four jets that was imported from England.

Site improvements, utility service, permitting and other similar soft costs add more.

After gathering this information, you determine your max land cost as follows:Completed market valueLess: construction costsLess: soft costsLess: desired profit= Max Land ValueAs a note, construction lenders will usually lend up to 65-75% of completed market value.

We would like to obtain the asset rather than her throwing in the towel early and letting the chips fall where they may.

Soft surfaces are fine for good tenants but my philosophy has always been to over-protect everything if it's going to be a rental.  

I am not sure I can charge more (but maybe) but am sure there will be soft benefits like it being easier to rent...

You might want to look into a degree focused on "soft" skills like organizational behavior/management.

I'm searching for a new credit check solution, and hoping someone who has already waded through the myriad options has found the same thing I'm looking for.Cozy.co offers soft pulls, but no way to collect an application fee unless & until the applicant becomes a tenant.