Check for stains Cigarette smoke can stain walls, ceilings, curtains, light fixtures, and lamps.

This is the simplest method, but it also means your tenants are more likely to abuse the utilities by leaving windows open with the heat or A/C running, leaving lights on, ignoring the toilet that constantly flushes on its own, etc.3.

maybe some light repairs after the tenant moves in...so your first few years after a purchase are typically stabilization, and you investing your money into the property.

So, if the surface was high gloss it may need to be lightly sanded or to use a product to take the sheen off of it.

**light goes off in head** - maybe that's why all these "guru's" are working hard trying to sell training rather than working on deals.

Start with something light-value add or turnkey so you don't take on too much risk and you can learn the whole process with a more friendly investment. 

he brought the appraisal up by around 40,000 dollars but was still a bit light compared to equal comps. 

Sure, it will take a few days but worth its weight in gold. 

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 never pull permits for;  swapping AC, swaping fixtures (lights/fans/faucets), flooring, paint.