Spend a couple hundred dollars on bark, lay that on the flat areas with a weed mat and plant wild flowers on the hill, making it more easy on the eyes.B.

We leave birthday cake for the birthday people, champagne for the anniversary couple, etc.....

I've lived off the grid with only solar and propane and as an owner that's NOT going to be successful as STR unless you live on site and can constantly be repairing, cleaning, placing flower arrangements, and seeing to the needs of your guests. 

Add flower pots with geraniums or succulents and a welcome matt or sunflower wreath from Michael's.

New tile brings 300%  @ re tile kitchen and bathrooms, cost $700 increase the value $2100New paint 300%new light fixtures and door knobs 300-500%New windows 200%Curb appeal  ( outside) front yard    1000%   just a few bushes and bark and flowers can make a yard Pop!

Set up individual Revocable trusts for each property, name them with the address: as in: The Flower Street Living Trust. 

I want to absorb as much information as I can and land some type of property deal within the next year or so (by my 21st birthday if I can in May).

Some things you can negotiate such as you wanted to put in a new water heater on the day they have a birthday party planned. 

Maintenance is minimal with a rock garden and tons of perennial flowers.

You should definitely look at the near Eastside / by Irvington / Little Flower for better prices but stable rents.