BUT If I if I buy a place for $100K, force appreciation to $200K and refinance it for $200K aren't I assuming an extra $100K in debt?

Some local areas have been having success installing planter boxes on extra wide sidewalks.

I won't be gouged, but I'll pay a little extra, because ultimately I know it was my fault for what is happening now. 

I asked our buyer for 2,500 non refundable if he doesn't close  in three weeks, he did that and we ammended the closing date.If that doesn't work and you have a really sweet deal, you can also ask him how much extra he needs to stay in he deal.

Things could change when I'm a year or two away from the 10-year loans being paid off I may just get them done early and open the cash flow but I'm not going to dump a couple extra hundred dollars to a 30-year loan to pay it off in 15.

If you have some extra money to cover maintenance, great.

But can anyone convince me that putting a little extra effort in the design can be worth it in long-term rentals?

If I was single I would rent out my extra bedroom for another 650... unfortunately I am not lol 

Most appraisers should adjust higher for an extra bed then they will for an extra bath.

I enjoy flipping different items (computers, cameras, shoes, tickets to name a few) and providing drone services as a way to earn some extra income.I have little to no experience in real estate but after digesting many podcasts (how I heard of bigger pockets) and books post-graduation I definitely think it is something I need to learn about to start building wealth long-term.