I cleaned up the back yard, cutting down old trees etc.

I have roommates so they could have flushed anything like face wipes or it could have been tree roots.

I still have some contacts and I can shake some trees if you would like? 

I'm looking at conventional loans because of the preferable amortization schedule and lower interest rates, but maybe I'm simply barking up the wrong tree. 

When they asked (demanded) I fill out these huge packets (on dead tree) and had to justify our rent amount, I said “pass!”

Usually the basics for good curb appeal and return would be:Green grass (no weeds or big empty patches), have the trees and bushes pruned.Use low lying flowers/shrubs at front of house so there's some color and character.. but you're not blocking up the view of front of the homeKeeping things generally 'manicured' is the better way to go. 

The front roof has tree branches on it. 

I worked for a tree trimming company for a little while, which led to me starting my own landscaping company.

The property owner before owes $8000 to the COA for cutting down trees without a permit at the property too.   

I get your point and I appreciate you weighing in, but for the sake of my own continuing real estate education am I at least barking up the right tree?