To what extent does landscaping typically add value to a property for the purposes of appraisal and re-financing, compared to other improvements? 

In my case, I wasn’t sure my land qualified because it was essentially my back yard, but because it was always a separate lot from my house, I was able to still do it because raw land without improvements on it is always considered investment property.

@Marci S.This will be challenging as most lenders will lend on an asset.

Also, what’s been your biggest challenge when it comes to securing the funds you need?

Setting that aside, I don't believe its realistic to buy a home and turn around and flip it without making any improvements.

Basically scale in paper and challenge it with your personal time, resources, desires, finance, insurance, PM, etc.

Both of these challenges can often be minimized with the right team and guidance from an experienced investor.As @Jay Hinrichs mentioned, appreciation is the main driver of wealth in real estate.

Challenges?

But the struggle is real right now…  It will be challenging to find banks that will lend with less than 20% down.

What you are not including is vacancy, capital improvements, turnover costs etc.