Additionally, what do you look for in a property to increase the value i.e. what are typical items to target?

There are cheaper one’s in D/F areas but I would be careful as those can create a laundry list of additional issues.

If you have any additional advice please let me know!

In addition to offering "cash for keys" assure them that they can use you as a referral on their next tenant application, or offer them a short term-2 month lease.

The only reason he did it was because it led to additional work.

Additional costs will creep in and costs seem to go up faster than rents, so I would sell and try to otherwise optimize the VA loan. 

This can provide additional capital for future investments and get the next one.Or evaluating other loan options:Depending on your long-term plans, you could explore conventional loans or portfolio loans that might offer more favorable rates or terms with the new appraisal value factored in.Your decision depends on your broader strategy.

Feel free to private message me with any additional questions.

I also make sure to specify in the lease agreement that I need proof of coverage before move-in and that the policy should name me as an “additional interested party.”

Most look at a Certificate of Insurance and confirm coverage limits but best practices are to (1) become added as additional insured under contractors policy and (2) understand coverage exclusions which are not going to be detailed on an insurance certificate.