We are hoping to do a few more improvements before renting to help our chances of commanding the highest possible rent. 

So what they did was ask me for a deposit last month's rent and the phone number and email address to my chain of command.

I have properties that I have held on to for 2 decades.So I tend to completely gut renovate the Investment in order to reduce the CapEx throughout the years.Obviously, if you are buying an Investment that is in dire need of rehab, and you do not gut renovate it, your CapEx is much higher than a completely brand new renovation or new Construction.So if Property A is selling for $1 Million but is in complete shambles, but property B is a new construction with everything done well but also sells for $1 Million, they will not have the same CapEx even if they command the same rent roll.NYC is funny this way.

In year round rentals better schools, access to amenities (local beach, club, pool) will command some difference but maybe not $500.

The only way that a MH could command a price like that is if you bought it new or its connected to land (you own the land).As Tim and Charles said, don't take any site as gospel, you will get burnt.

Cash purchases carry much less risk to the seller, and can close much more quickly and with much less hassle, and thus command a premium. 

@Chatree C. yes, stainless appliances will absolutely command more rent assuming the rest of your kitchen is updated

I believe a facelift/touch-up may help us command more rental income but we don't even know where to start.  

But you can definitely command higher rents for actual Condo's than for apartment units.  

Then, I covered it with a "Command" hook that I hung a razor on.