(utilities, curb, gutter, sidewalk, road, paving, etc.) as well as the excavation of the site. 

Both parties spoke different languages- the lender spoke ROI, ROE, WAC, discounted cash value, etc. while the project developer spoke excavation and grading costs, the price to import and compact soil, installation of curb and gutter, etc.

instant curb appeal and makes a great selling feature to potential tenants.

The front and sides of the house were landscaped with mulch and plants just to give the place some curb appeal to potential rentersThe work on the first floor is progressing nicely and should be done this week. 

Personally, I'd rather have the better neighborhood and work on improving the curb appeal or make the home more attractive to potential tenants than deal with a "down and out" neighborhood, unless I knew that neighborhood was in transition to a better market.     

Single premium curbs the effective cost of financing a property with little down payment.Sound good?

No matter what you do, curb appeal will hurt you on this house if you don't put some money or sweat equity into the front of the house.If you're city OK's rentals, then I would consider the addition on the house depending on ARV and comps.

I watched the tenant and his son pulling suitcases down the street as I pulled away from the curb. 

Back is the same, but with an parking line against the curb. 

house is single story 800 sq ft.How much value is there in improving the curb / online viewing appeal?