Having said that, improvements will only go so far to bring in more rent than what your market bears, so if the numbers look better to sell it because you've created a knockout home, why not? 

Then look for houses that can be bought at a steep discount and improved to be cash flowing rentals.

Repairs or improvements on your primary are not deductbile. 

We have made significant improvements to the building including remodeling the interior, new ac units on the roof, new roof, and adding an atrium area in the middle that was previously open space.

I’ve done new construction framing in San Diego, framing repair (termite damage), painting, and commercial tenet improvement.

It just corrected lease hold improvements. 

Meaning if you raise the rents due to an improved property or provide a business plan showing such improvements, a bank would be more inclined to provide a loan.

If you improved (upgrade) the units could you generate another $50, $75 or $100 per month?

Funds would be used for home improvement and pay of a $30 Auto Loan.

If you don't have cash available for improvements, you might not want to go the fixer-upper route right now.