I added value by rehabbing both of the units inside the property What was the outcome?

What was the outcome?

It was beneficial when I owned in high COLA and felt bullish about appreciation.

I personally created all the artwork displayed throughout the property, and my partner and I tackled all the remodeling and landscaping work ourselves What was the outcome?

Depending on some other factors though it might be more beneficial for you to either pay off the other debt or invest it in the market. 

I would thank him for his feedback and share that you made a business decision that is mutually beneficial (https://www.avail.co/education/articles/should-you-collect-r...scroll down towards the bottom of the page to see the comparison) which includes providing the tenant with a receipt and rent reminders.  

What was the outcome?

Carpet throughout (as Minnesota gets frigid in the winter) What was the outcome?

If a person wants a different outcome, they usually do something different.

For your first deal, it might be beneficial to try doing some of the simple work yourself so you know what goes into it.