Visible dirt/dust on almost every surface, trash (including Q-tips) left on bathroom floor, toilet not cleaned, food splatter around kitchen, smudges on walls, windows and mirrors, list goes on... 

During that process, I am seeing some appreciation in the property but it's because I remodeled a lot of it.

As you're managing longer leases and not worrying about toilets and trash. 

Estimating construction and remodeling has been around a long time, people who do this are called estimators.There's books, software and even courses on estimating.

Purchase price: $240,000 Cash invested: $200,000 Remodeled the house, all doors 3ft wide, added a wheelchair friendly bathroom and shower.

I have a remodel happening now that my funds are tied up in.

Full kitchen and bathroom remodel, new floors, drywall, interior and exterior paint, landscaping, and misc.

A lake home with a hot tub that's remodeled should be appealing and it's worth a look. 

A clogged toilet that's caused by constantly flushing down wipes?

I'd probably give 60 days if it's for a remodel, to give them enough time to find a new place and not have it be a nightmare for them.