If a major expense comes about (i.e. roofing repair, hvac, etc) we would split that as well. 

Capex is usually lower, around 2-5%, since major replacements like roofs or HVAC systems are far off.

As Hurricane Helena went by, both of the roofs got damaged.

Every 15 yrs HVAC, every 20 roof/kitchen/bath, every 5 flooring...  

If they have a good roof, I use a company that used to send someone out to do a roof inspection (at no cost to me). 

In my case it's probably going to be the roof. 

With $170k to deploy you most likely will have that all in one, maybe two deals, if it doesn’t go well you could end up way worse off.That said, if there are other factors like the property is a huge pain to manage or you are worried the neighborhood may actually get worse or you know you need a new roof in a couple years, then I’d consider selling.Also, even though you said it’s not a high appreciating area, do you think 1-2% is fair?

Not to mention, solar panels can also be a cause of roof leaks and require regular cleaning to maintain some level of efficiency which is not great to start with while also getting worse over time.

Figure that out and you'll have a roof over your head that pays for itself while you accelerate savings and repeat in 1-2 years.

Could be a new roof, HVAC system, or new kitchen along the way (all of which could certainly add equity to the home irrespective of the year it was built).