We opted to make this a top-line property so we put granite countertops, SS appliances, hardwood floors and all new mechanicals, plumbing, and electrical.All 4 units have identical 2 bed 1 bath layouts but each has a slightly different color scheme in the kitchen and bathroom to appeal to different tenant interests.  

Absolutely love all the natural light in the kitchen/living room, that is beautiful!

First floor has an enclosed porch, living room, fourth bedroom, dining room, eat-in kitchen, and powder room.

For example, avoiding kitchen service cuts down on a lot of variable operational costs.  

I love a fan in the kitchen, takes the edge off the heat. 

-  "Because they tell you they own 15 units all with new granite countertops + new fridges in the kitchens, but their personal kitchen has 30 year old countertops and a 1960s lime green fridge."). 

I need some simple engineering also done for a wall of pano doors on the back wall of glass to backyard and a partial wall removal from kitchen to living room. 

Are tenants willing to pay more for an upgraded kitchen, potlights, granite counters, etc.?

A lot of the housing stock, in and around Baltimore, is fairly old (1940's and 50's) and typically requires a minimum amount of rehab that often include: rewiring, replumb, roof, windows, kitchens, baths, cosmetics, and oftentimes a full gut to the studs.

From the prices I have seen, you could do quite well that way- they are getting the price of a one bedroom apartment for a bedroom + shared kitchen and bath.