It adds extra protection for your assets.

Additionally small tenant improvements could have similar benefits with bonus depreciation and new assets.

And it's an asset that will grow with you for the rest of your life.

Is there a certain direct mail service they prefer?  

When you need the money, sell assets, transfer funds back into checking account 2 days later. 

And you’re absolutely right: underwriting isn’t just numbers on a spreadsheet; it’s understanding the moving parts of an asset, the market, and how to navigate uncertainty.

I know lots of installers don't do it, and I personally prefer the unimpeded look, but anything installed outside of the requirements of the material is probably going to be limited, i.e. the insurance company is not going to pay you because the material was not installed according to flooring requirements. 

Tenants prefer detached housing over attached housing and stay longer. 

I think it would require a major asset heavy backer to provide the confidence the investing public needs to scale to profitability.  

Now taht real estate has gone back to the good ole days of not being an appreciation machine and a good investor needs sound fundamentals in managing and overseeing the properties - now you are given the wave of "creative finance" which comes off as its easy to get a home but it will be interesting to see how these people are fairing in a few years of mismanagement of these assets.