Curb appeal for higher-end properties will be much more important, especially when it comes to marketing - most ads and main listing photos feature the front of the property.In this case, I would consult with a professional - i.e. landscape designer or stager.

A major part of the success or failure of an STR investment is the design, furnishing and management plan.

Retirement accounts are designed to be invested passively so when the IRS sees you running an active business in it, to level the playing field between retirement accounts and other business the retirement account incurs UBIT. 

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. 

I still have that house and it rents for a grand these days. my first house was late 70s that I bought  in those days it was 80 10 and 10  you need 10% cash and normally a private HML would give you the 10% second and bank was the first.. interest on the first was 9% second was 15%.. this was before the Carter interest rate run up.. paid 80k for it in Milpitas CA.. and it was brand new bought it from Shapel . 

I have 16 homes in Rio Grande Valley that are RENTED for $1000 plus per month.

Their contribution depends on factors like local demand for ADUs, their design and size, and how they’re used (e.g., rental income potential).

Links/references- https://www.canva.com/design/DAFHd-6ryQ8/_T6h0Y9jV0zIEADl6bq... - https://therentalgirl.com/tichttps://andysirkin.com/tenancy-in-common-tic/operating-and-m... - https://www.stonesalluslaw.com/tenancy-in-common-in-californ... - https://www.investopedia.com/terms/t/tenancy_in_common.asp - https://www.rocketmortgage.com/learn/tenancy-in-common - https://www.allcalifornia.com/tenancy-in-common - https://andysirkin.com/tenancy-in-common-tic/guidance-for-se... - https://www.dre.ca.gov/files/pdf/tic_guidelines.pdfby the way I received a lawyer referral who is supposedly familiar with tic in California.  

They have a team of designers who do it online.

Investing in features like high-end appliances and modern designs yielded a higher ROI.