For example a contractor I hired told me another investor had just offered him a bundle of five homes.

In fact, a good argument can be made to sell #s 3 and 2, pay off #1, keep some reserves, and hire a property manager. 

Appraisers often rely on comparables, so showing them properties with similar square footage and added living space may help justify the value.Get Another Appraisal: If possible, you could request another appraisal or hire an appraiser that specializes in valuing homes with finished basements or unique features.

If you hire a handyman in the bay area you will probably pay $35-50/hr depending on skill level and the trade involved.This work was done in Richmond, CA. 

I know I could hire a manager acquisitions, but do not have that volume to justify one I think.

If you hired out all the work, you are more likely to get ~$0.50 for each dollar you spent on the ADU assuming 1) in single family zoned area 2) not converted from existing habitat space. 

if the timber is merch  you should get a mill in there to bid on the timber.. hire a logger.. profit you use to knock the stumps out.your civil engineer should be giving you a preliminary cost to do infrastructure normally they will do these for free since they will be designing it all.. they would be the best bet anyone on line is simply  a WAG  

I hired a GC to manage the build out, but there has been no consensus on who is responsible for the utility payments (Water and Energy). 

I haven’t had to hire out PM for my rentals yet but what I’ve been told is that 10% are good, 80% are mediocre/fine, and 10% are awful. 

You can hire a landman to research if you desire.