What benchmark do people use for returns?

Both major plants (GM & Chrysler) are investing big into revitalizing and modernizing their plants.

No clue if that applies to modern day.

Make this your benchmark when you search for new markets if your goal is to be a cash-flow investor.2. 

After some medical issues she decided it was time to move into a retirement home.I don't have the money to do a full purchase, but I would like to work out a deal where  I renovate/modernize her home (it is the same layout as mine), then when it is sold I get a percentage of the profit.  

Unfortunately, not everyone who answers the phone in the modern business world - whether self-directed IRA or otherwise - knows how to answer questions or get the appropriate resource for you if they cannot.There is no issue with an IRA or 401k participating in a LLC or partnership that uses debt, so long as there is no personal guarantee coming from the IRA holder or a disqualified party.  

The 50% rule has it's merit as a conservative way to approach REI, but, again, I'm convinced that using it as the primary benchmark can create a situation where investors walk away from deals that end up being very lucrative.......

Since you are already doing work to the property you can modernize without spending too much money.

It was a solid single family home in a great community that simply needed updating and modernizing inside.

There's more - we installed all new kitchen cabinetry, new appliances, and enlarged the opening between the kitchen and living room to make it more open, modern , and bright.