But any improvements are at your risk.. the redeeming party just owes you your cash plus in our state 9% and any VERIFIABLE expenses you paid to protect the asset.

I'd go ahead and list it.There are many past posts on how to improve your search list placement such as making frequent changes to listing and updating pictures.

As you try to manage and "push" vendors for your property, sometimes the only way to improve is to change.

Hope NOI and CoC will improve in the near term, until then avoid putting any new money.

Real estate is a long term wealth building strategy and in that one year you can learn a lot about home improvement and land lording. 

As I addressed in another discussion, most money in real estate is made by long term appreciation and by improving, repositioning, and stabilizing the property, NOT thru purchasing at a discounted price.  

Are you seeing any emerging trends or opportunities tied to these lifestyle improvements, such as increased demand for certain property types or neighborhoods?

We improve the kitchen and the patio but just because we live here.

Before renting, I need to complete a few improvements to the townhome, such as landscaping and replacing the flooring in the bedrooms.I have a few questions and would appreciate any advice: What should I look out for during the home inspection and closing process on a new-build property?

Small improvements or updates can justify slightly higher rents too.