I updated the kitchens in my units, ripped out the carpet for hardwood floors and planted new grass in the side yard and that drove up value significantly.

However a manufacturing company from Norway just announced they are building a $300 million dollar plant with additional $150 million coming from the state.

They have three of these planted near the property line on their side and the canopy from each one basically cover one third of my roof. 

Simple items like tables, lamps, paintings, mirrors, plants, and rugs in the main living space creates a welcoming feel during an open house and in pictures.

I am in a similar boat as I am a consultant for Wastewater treatment plants, except I dont like my work and want to get into real estate development!

I find it interesting everyone spoke of inspections in the light of a tenant doing something 'wrong' or harmful to the property, not as a way to do preventive maintenance on power plants, hvac, and appliances.

I am sure Warren Buffet doesn't visit a Coca Cola plant even though he has billions invested in Coca Cola.I pay from 6% to 8% for property management and that is more than worth it.

The flip side to this is the fertilizer plant. 

@Tiago Alencar I have heard the exact same quote but with planting a tree.

The sand and water components of the mix are heated at the plant, so the mix arrives able to set up properly in cooler weather.