So more than worth it. 15-20% for STRs.

I went to a learn-on-the-site program that our local REIA had recently.  3BR/3BA house, owner is probably in 145K after fix up (I know the purchase price, don't know what was spent to get it ready after purchase) and a handful of years later it's now worth 190K. 

I don't think it's the end of the world @Jonathan Greene...if it still helps someone learn something new there is at least some positive.In my opinion, those trolls will get seen for who they really are in the long run, so it is just a short-term play...that I don't know is worth worrying much about.I'd rather someone say, "Here is a question we often get asked as a general contractor: how much does it cost to dig down a Chicago basement?  

Remember to make a donation. 

If I do the renovations, probably a bit more, though I’m not sure how worth it that would be.

Strong jobs reports had a larger effect on the 10 year treasury, followed by strong retail sales numbers, followed by EU inflation numbers, then followed by election results but honestly election results only affected rates for a couple of days.Lots of pressure on treasuries from the level of debt the US is carrying, but remember the Fed is also still doing quantitative tightening (while cutting rates) which is additional upward pressure on rates.

Always talk to your CPA to see if you qualify.That said, the benefits are definitely worth it if you do.

Remember, the real estate community is a great resource for support and guidance along the way.Good luck!

Generally, this type of counseling might have a little fee to it but it's well worth it if it protects you (and them). 

Also the value (in this case) is determined by the NOI, so assuming it will be worth 2x, is assuming your NOI is thru the roof (which is can be, but it's not likely in the first 5 years).