ExteriorThe walkways were cracked and should be monitored for action.Sections of the aluminum siding and trim were damaged and should be replaced.There was weathered wood trim throughout that should be replaced as necessary.We recommend installing window well covers over all window wells.The left-side gate was damaged and should be repaired or replaced.Some of the hose spigots were inoperable and this should be corrected.There was some minor cracking throughout each driveway that should be repaired as necessary.There was storage in the 1070 garage that obscured some areas from visual inspection.The Genie overhead garage door opener was not working properly and should be serviced or replaced.The garage door opener was plugged into an extension cord and a dedicated outlet should be installed.We recommend installing downspout extensions to divert drainage away from the foundation of the home.Each overhead garage door was damaged and should be monitored and repaired or replaced as necessary.The patio screen door was badly torn and damaged by the dog and should be replaced.The left side storm door was missing and should be replaced as necessary.

For example, 2 years before we placed our house into service, we installed a new patio and driveway and purchased a new fridge.  

You will be taxed at ordinary income rates tho.

Admittedly, if you are doing rentals, its passive income and you don't face the 35% ordinary income tax that sent me scrambling.You can read up on solo 401K's at my favorite solo 401K consultant, mysolo401k.com and on this site.

Would it make sense to spend a bit more to put in large patio stones in the barren section? 

. $200k/door sounds a little steep, but not out of the ordinary.

This enables you to defer the payment of your ordinary income, capital gain, depreciation recapture and/or Medicare Surcharge (“Obamacare”) income tax liabilities.When you completes a 1031 exchange you carry over the basic from the relinquished property to the replacement property.

., W/D hookups, and a not-so-private patio for each unit.

The items above are more about the area, but in terms of the actual property, I look for a home with a functional floor plan, a patio or backyard, a view if possible, a garage if possible, a good foundation (no cracks/damage), and the ability to make a good rental for the target market you are aiming for.

But with the STR you’ll probably have a kitchen, living room, patio or porch, and your own bedroom and bathroom.