It depends on the neighborhood and maybe even what improvements that hypothetical home built in the 1970s got. 

Many of the towns are having to improve infrastructure due to the quickly growing population.

Modern builds and thoughtful rehabs sell quickly.Key ROI Factors:Strong rental market for investors who want to flip and hold.First-time homebuyers are flocking here for affordable entry-level homes with character.Pro Tip: Target small, outdated homes on larger lots to capitalize on backyard improvements or expansions.3.

For example she starts dating a carpenter or a handyman type (or even worse a wannabe carpenter or handyman) who moves in and does work on the home and claims they should have equity too for making those improvements.

🌞6️⃣ Rental Income Deductions: Earn income & deduct related expenses.7️⃣ Home Equity Loan Interest: Deduct interest if used to improve your home.8️⃣ Military Moving Expenses: Active-duty?

Thanks Anthony, solid idea to improve efficiency.

Long term I see entire neighbors improve for their betterment because of rising prices and the very hard work of those buyers.

Like aircraft checklists and vehicle operators manuals (the -10s), one can benefit from extensive research, trial and error, and deliberate improvement principles gained by the many that have gone the path before. 

Put all your cash flow into improving your existing rentals or buying more.

What is your skillset or time availability, what is your network currently like and do you need to improve that?