Like the old adage "what we lose in profit, we'll make up in volume" makes no practical sense. 

I was tentatively hired, though no official paperwork, to help this RE Investing company to advise, improve, and streamline all of their Marketing efforts to acquire, buy, and sell properties.

This includes renovating (to the level of the neighborhood) and making sometimes significant improvements to prevent issues.

Keep in mind that some improvements and renovations you have made over the years will likely increase your basis in the property and decrease you capital gains.Make sure you find a CPA who specializes in real estate, rather than someone who works with all industries.

My husband started in his first property In 1999 house hacking a duplex and making improvements.

I could also improve the numbers should I convert any of them to a short term rental. 

Has anyone heard of this practice?

So these days, you don't have to drive very far in Houston to spot crews of local dirt contractors out there widening/expanding/improving bayous, creeks, ditches and what-have-you.  

Save it for the next deal and improvements. 

Having these facilities within a short walking, driving, or biking distance will dramatically improve quality of life and easier integration into the community.