Net worth = Assets - LiabilitiesIn my case, I made sure  value of my house increased (Asset) relative to the funds I took for a cash-out refinance I did to access the funds for the renovation (Liability). 

I'm wondering if some existing owners are getting out of short-term rentals because of the numbers, which would further reduce supply and, the thinking goes, increase revPAR/occupancy.) 

.- Ensure electrical panel, wiring, plumbing, drains, heat pumps, central air conditioner, hot water heater, etc. are in good serviceable condition.- Trim baseboards with 6" trim, windows, throughout.Living Room:- Is that an attic access panel?

Once you have this team in place, you should be able to invest in any market confidently.As for picking a specific market - I would go after one with an increasing job and population growth.

What are the highest return strategies to increasing refinance value on new homes? 

For instance, in a family-oriented neighborhood, additional storage might enhance appeal and facilitate a quicker sale, albeit with a relatively modest increase in value.It's essential to view these improvements from a value-added perspective.

It sounds like your finances are tight as a young professional with a family, I'd advice work on increasing your W2 income, with more education or training.

We saw the ability to finish the basement and increase the ARV.

My landlord increased my rent by $100, which in my opinion makes my apartment overpriced compared to similar apartments in the area.

At this point the value of the house is still increasing but not at the same rate as the previous years for a number of obvious reasons (high Interest rates,  age of house, etc.) and at this point I'm not sure what my next move should be since I don't like having all that equity tied up in the property and borrowing against it (HELOC) doesn't seem like a good idea since banks seem to be charging even higher than "normal" interest rates because the house is not my primary residenceIt's been almost 2 yrs since a I moved out of the house and I know my time is running out before we'll have to pay capital gains on the property if we chose to sell it [unless I do a 1031 exchange of course] but wondering what other options I might consider.