Some of the things that we don't typically do that we could for relatively low cost are (keep in mind that these are houses below median price in my area - so granite counters and the like are not really necessary, but might be an option) installing fancy tile backsplashes, tile granite counter tops, under cabinet lights, recessed lighting, wainscoting/chair rails, spending more on curb appeal, outdoor living areas (large custom decks etc) and other things that can get rather expensive.I'm not wanting to spend a lot but am willing to add something extra if it will help sell houses faster.

OOS go airbnb here cause it's close to NRG, Toyota Center, George R Brown, but you go check how little 77004 goes in recessions.

As great as the economy looks right now, I am concerned that there will be a recession in the near future.

You have a relatively soft real estate market across many parts of the country, subprime lending sucking wind, a recent 1/2 point Fed rate reduction, a weak Dollar and lots of prediction/discussion for either a recession in the short term, or inflation & higher interest rates in the long.What markets are going to be a good deal for you - will really depend how quick of a turn around are you looking on it.

If we go into (or are in) a recession, jobs get scarce and banks won't make loans, prices could fall below the long term trendline.

Being able to cash out this much isn't normal in my market in today's day and age and i'm not sure how it actually happened (could do this a lot in before the recession I've heard).  

All the recession signals are flashing - high flipping, booming real estate seminars, low affordability.

It barely saw a dip during the recession, although it was slow a few years after.

I could not sell it at the time because this was during the recession and I was about $60,000 under water on the property.  

Memphis is a great city and it is really recession proof; property values don't change a ton, but the cash on cash return is fantastic.