A question I have IRT searching for comps- I understand that your agent can pull Comps from the MLS, or you could even have an appraisal conducted-but does the MLS go into specifics about "granite counter tops, NEW appliances" etc for you to compare this to?

This would be my first such deal and I'm open to hearing of anyone's personal experience in that market.I've done my due diligence and it looks as if it's ARV is about $225K with what appears to be only cosmetic updates needed, such as granite counters in kitchen, sod in the backyard, new faucet fixtures all around. 

I personally would shop around for granite and look for remnants before considering granite tiles. 

Granite counters, too. 8.5x8.5 kitchen. 

If you do it yourself, it's cheaper than paying someone for granite.

He purchased a property in a D class neighborhood and put in A- class upgrades like granite countertops and stainless steel appliance.

I'm pretty familiar with the East Bay and 2 years ago you could buy at market, update kitchen and baths (granite, light fixtures and MAYBE floors) for about $15-$20K and resell in 90 days for a net $60K +/- gain.Based on the number of ppties I see on the MLS now I'd say some of those "investors" probably got caught flat-footed, unless they timed the market exactly right-which I doubt.I just spent a week in far eastern Contra Costa County, in a "waterfront" town.

.✅ Replaced cast iron plumbing to PEX ✅ Paint & LVP flooring✅ Brand new kitchen with granite countertops, shaker cabinets, backsplash, and stainless appliances✅ Brought the laundry from an exterior mechanical closet to inside the home✅ Full exterior refresh for curb appeal✅ Added a Tesla Wall Connector in the carport for at-home charging ⚡️ (ok, this one is just for me but is pretty cool) What was the outcome?

They know what we look for in a rental and bring them to our attention, it's great.As far as the turnkey/network buying:PROS for BUILDER:  (1) Source of qualified buyers, often 1031 exchange buyers  (2) Builder knows what RE investors and renters want, builds to that standard -- floorplans, amenities -- no change orders to deal with  (3) Investors don't have the contingency to sale current home (4) Save on marketing time and costs, no open houses, flat referral fee to network, no agent/broker fees (5) I would think investors are easier to work with, less drama (that's speculation, lol)PROS for BUYER:  (1) Builder already vetted, although you're foolish not to do your own legwork  (2) Buyer's network has some clout, the builder doesn't want to mess up that relationship so more responsive (3) Usually other investors you can network within that market to vet the area, builder, the management company (4) Ease of transactionIn JAX/Ocala we've found  RWN affiliate quality is outstanding, good workmanship, desirable floorplans, quality granite, stainless. 

{Un}fortunately, there are enough landlords in our area who think students should live in derelict homes and pay top dollar for the privilege, that we have little problem standing out.As example, here is a washroom we re-did in our rooming house 18-month ago:The tub has an acrylic 3-piece surround, while the floor is porcelain tile (scored a great price on ends) and the vanity is real wood (expresso finish) with a granite top.