He wants to build a booth in the attached garage so that he can varnish/paint furniture and vent the fumes outside.  

While growing up I helped my dad with the usual landlord jobs when it came to painting, plumbing, hanging shelving, or the worst one cleaning after an eviction.

Andy, another thing to consider is the lead paint status.

I appreciate any insight.Details about the building:3000sf at the intersection of two busy state highways in a small town (Llano, TX)$172,500 asking pricebuilding needs work inside- new carpet, paint, some new siding, but nothing major

We have upgraded this property a decent amount from an aesthetics and general cleanliness standpoint, and put about $7,000 of work into it to begin with (new countertops, a few appliances, new carpet, paint, and tree removal).

We have done virtually everything to make our units bullet proof (new floors, new windows, new fixtures, new paint, new counter tops, new doors, etc. etc.).This keeps us viable in the market place and keeps our maintenance calls to a minimum. 

I agree, the rent should match fair market value, but the unit could use an updated bathroom, paint, & other cosmetics.Are these easy tasks to accomplish while the tenant lives there or should I consider paying for them to live elsewhere during the reno work?

My contractor handles paint/tile/cabinets/ basic plumbing/ electrical/ lighting/ trash/ fit and finish / cleaning it up when done. 

From a short inspection, I saw no vacant units in current marketable condition, but one was getting new carpet and paint during our visit.

Does it need to be painted?