I have a question about the seemingly subjective nature of appraisals.

Also, I did a bit of research and there seems to be less natural disasters there vs other big cities in Tx like Houston and Dallas, correct me if I'm wrong. 

All of the items he listed seems to be cosmetic in nature nothing that can't be corrected.. 

Do you want to cash flow, retire from your current occupation, make investing full-time or just supplement your current income.  

Prices have been tough for a few years now, and I think you'd be better with some other investment choices.At the moment, I like foreign ETFs and natural resource funds (Europe, Asian Mid Cap, and Emerging Market).

They both have solid roofs, electric to the pole and city water as well as natural gas.

We are exploring the options should we 1) just clean the fireplace to its natural color or 2) Put the tile on the fire place.Any thoughts ?

Tenants in my area are drawn to natural gas, period.  

There are many ways to invest in a truly passive nature and make low double digit returns with a relatively low downside / capital protection through note funds, etc.

It's natural, part of youth and maturing.