The amenities continue to improve and there are still several massive public/private initiatives in the works like the Hostess block and the East-Central plan. 

Improving the neighborhood, as well!

If the existing loan/appraisal was done no more than 6 months ago, the appraised value can't be higher than what that original appraisal was...even if you improved it.

With a few improvements they could certainly raise the rents to market value and my step-dad could handle most of the maintenance and upgrades.  

Don't use your new income to improve your lifestyle with new clothes, a car, renovating your own home, etc.

It’s not like they do Improvements to your property, with proper authorization.  

What store will have the staff to stand in the bathroom to verify that their workers wash their hands.

It has overall been a good experience as they were there for some years and have been pretty grateful with a new owner whom is looking to improve the home and has more modern ways of communication/rent with cozy.

Maintaining the portfolio you inherited (visiting these properties and learning why they've lost value and how you can improve them will teach you so much more than just reading a book.

It was affordable, in a great location, and small enough to improve/furnish on a budget.