I wouldn't even waste your money on taking preventative measures.

Measure out the pros and get an idea for the costs before you commit.

As mentioned elsewhere in this thread, the “error on measure” of an appraisal is high.

Are there required measures taken to sell the properties (short sale, auction, etc) before the bank takes it back?

Having a partner introduces a completely different set of circumstances like trust and experience in past deals which aren't necessarily stats you can measure on paper.  

We have already measured and made the backsplash, which will go with either  dark or light cabinets.Also, the place is still full of junk [not like the ones I have seen pictured on BP] but there is also a quantity of ruby and depression glass in some of the cabinets.  

Where were you measuring that you saw the drop?

Although not connected to real estate per se, I do have a lot of experience in planning and measuring progress, solving problems, reading and executing contracts as well as interfacing with both customers and contractors. 

. $ per door is just one example of a quick measurement to compare deals.

"Borrowers who purchased the subject property within the past six months (measured from the date on which the property was purchased to the disbursement date of the new mortgage loan) are eligible for a cash-out refinance if all of the following requirements are met."