Spend one year in that house improving as you are able (new paint and landscaping at the very least).

But I have been looking into splitting the duplex into two condos (yes I know it is a lot of work) and I could probably get 325-350k for each, netting me 650-700k.Number:* Mortgage interest 2.5%* Mortgage principle 240k* PITI $2100/month* Rent 2200/month (current tenant on a two year lease)* Potential rent on my side $2400/month * 100k HELOC at 11% (fixed) (not currently being used)* est additional cost to split the dueplex 75-100k (conservative, probably less)     *new siding 30k (just put on a new roof this year)     *legal 10-15k     *fire proofing 15k     * 15-40k for stuff I am not aware of or underestimated on* some of the appreciation is external from the home     *big grocery store put in 3min away     * newly paved road in front of my house     *a building that was falling down across the street has been torn down          * Still a vacant lot with the foundation exposed and fencing around it (so more local improvements are on the way)Part of me wants to take the money and run but man I love that 2.5% interest rate and the $2000/month cash flow (including taxes and capx)I have thought about 1031 exchanging into more rentals, but I would like to pivot into storage units.

Additionally, national lenders like Chase and Wells Fargo have strong multi-family loan programs that cater to out-of-state investors.Scaling OwnershipGiven your available cash and equity, here are a few strategies to consider:Leverage Existing Equity: Utilize the equity in your current properties through a cash-out refinance or HELOC to increase your purchasing power.Partnering with Other Investors: Consider syndications or joint ventures, which can help you scale more quickly without using all your own capital.Diversify Markets: While the Midwest is great, keep an eye on emerging markets across the country that may offer similar benefits.Focus on Value-Add Opportunities: Look for properties where you can increase value through renovations or improved management.I specialize in selling new construction duplexes in downtown Indianapolis, and I’ve found that multi-family properties here provide strong returns.

Research your competition to see what amenities they offer and look for opportunities to add or improve upon these features to make your listing more attractive.

Quote from @Michael Csrnko: This is a great example of taking an existing property and adding value through improvements.

Rehab to improve rent another story.

Looks like a waste of money for a marginal improvement.

This alone is a complex issue as the buyer needs to be able to make repairs and improvements, seeing that they are professionally done is another matter.

I recently had one property get near $50k in improvements and it cost me $2,500. if that ain't ROI I don't know what is. 

Our team meticulously managed the project, ensuring that all improvements were completed on time and within budget.