I think we will come to a resolution though.

Line item each thing as to make paying for what is done is easy and non-disputable. i.e. not 100% done, then not paid.

The actual value improvement is going to be determined by the referees if the previous owner disputes the value you give them and as a compromise can be determined with an updated appraisal when the owner redeems. 

There are credit forums with all of the tips needed to increase your score (keeping accounts open, increasing credit limits to decrease debt ratios, disputes, etc).

@Etahn Smith In Bergen County having laundry on the premises is a nice value add and a great selling point, just be sure that the machines stay in good repair and that the ratio of machines to tenants is favorable to avoid tenant disputes. 

Once you have that, dispute everything that isn't pristine.

This is the preferred method to insure minimum disputes after move out and law suites over thousands of dollars in tenant damage.

Most disputes between tenants and landlords occur due to disagreements with deposit returns.

If that is the case, pull your credit report and dispute everything that is hurting your score.

I have found the easiest way forward is to work with the tenant so the resolution is quick and painless. .