Just update that lighting to make it look warmer and you should be good to go.I would create a separate bank account for the place.

We talked to another guy recently who made nearly six figures installing chrismas/holiday lights.

Save the money, clean it till it shines, maybe basic improvements like a few new light fixtures or at least matching/bright lightbulbs, maybe a few new faucets, some paint touch ups and sell.If you’re hiring a Realtor®, they can tell you pricing in current condition versus pricing with a few minor changes.

I'll be able to shed additional light on the situation once I better understand the perceived risks you are looking to protect against and better understand the duplex. 

I would only do so on light rehabs or with contractors I have a lot of trust in. 

This question has come up a few times with prospective clients recently, so I thought I'd shed some light on it.Generally, being an employee in a real estate business does not automatically qualify you for REPS unless you own at least 5% of the employer.

Can you shed some light on what’s better for vacation rental overall return?

Put up at least 25 of them to start in high traffic areas where cars will be sitting, such as stop lights at busy intersections.

They went a step beyond and put money into the backyard space with a nice fire pit, string lights,  mulch, and lots of landscaping, which gives an awesome look.   

buying a random property on Zillow and making light cosmetic upgrades will not cut it in today's market.happy to answer any questions you have.