The next step is to enclose the loft area so that we have a full 2 bed 2bath which will be worth as much as the other 2bd 2bath in the area.

So, enclosing - Dave's program is incredible and, although, he is the man when it comes to personal finance, you have got to know yourself and what your capable of.

Don’t compare drive up to enclosed.  

According to the law for the grow room, only the caregiver and patient should have access to the room:"“Enclosed, locked facility” means a closet, room, or other comparable, stationary, and fully enclosed area equipped with secured locks or other functioning security devices that permit access only by a registered primary caregiver or registered qualifying patient.

There are many variables to consider in this evaluation process and in addition to the things that you listed to look for (crime rate, neighbourhood appearance) here are a few more variables I would consider when assessing the an area:- Proximity to amenities (grocery stores, fitness centres)- Distance to public transit (ie. terminals and bus stops) and other transportation improvements  - Whether the neighbourhood as a whole is in transition to increase or decrease in quality - Building of new infrastructure - Moving in of a major employer One other tidbit of advice I heard recently which I thought was great is to follow the big box stores (ie. walmart).

Public transportation is much needed here in Charlotte.

Do most other similar properties have an enclosed back yard / area so you need to offer this amenity to compete.Another question to ask people who what a fence is how much area do they need enclosed; less fence -> less cost.

Of course, only 30% of the fund will be allocated for affordable housing, and the bill is not specific what that even means. 10% will go to administration, and the remainder will go to public transportation and school districts.

The difference was never close to 10% nationwide, it never could be with land,labor,transportation,regulation and material difference. 

I've also been looking at major road projects to see what the Dept of Transportation in my state is up to.