That is much more likely to be considered a capital improvement, at least in part. 

The property card will tell you land value, improvement  value, how many years back taxes, etc.

How do you define "over improving?"

My question is other than Home Improvements Shows, which other ways of marketing are everyone else using that generate good leads?

Often next (or simultaneously) usually, but not always, some property improvements are in order.

I am also taking this time to improve the value and increase equity in my own house.

Bringing something to the table will massively improve your chances at the eventual mentor relationship you seek.

What other benefits result from the improvement. 

Some contradiction in thinking here too, you need to make improvements to bring the house you're looking at up to the standards of comps being similar.

Commercial tenants are different as they can account for leasehold improvements, expense and depreciate the items, but not a resident, residents cannot account for maintenance on taxes and the owner has that responsibility.Maintenance of a residence is therefore an owner's responsibility in every state of this country!