Adding and making better could sell or rent faster, but it won't get you more than what the market ARV and rent is set at from other similar comps in the area....and your Interior Design background will help, if you you it mostly as an understanding of cost. 

Links are kind of not allowed even though there is a spot for them in the post so some get removed.

Never heard of Vetted Homes until reading this thread. 

This is a significant down side to me as a long term investor as it basically wipes out your cash flow. 

It’s just more than I can afford, and I don’t want to offend you with a low offer.”

Chicago, with its vibrant neighborhoods and strong rental market, is a prime location for this strategy.

I am now connected to and working with another owner and managing her property under my portfolio as well.

I've done some preliminary due diligence (as the lender) and feel I have a pretty firm understanding of how it works.

Do you like the area or do you think that there may be more deals there with others pulling out of the area?

Start with BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide (free).