For example, ceiling fans in the master bedroom and family room, improving the curb appeal and the front entrance area, fresh paint, etc.

I can't tell you how many times I've taken over properties from companies that failed to renew elevator licenses, file taxes, renew basic business licenses, and a host of other stuff that would make self-management look more and more appealing!

@Mary lou Long I feel like subtle grey tones are way more appealing to the outdated beish and gives it a bit more modern touch. 

I do happen to be pretty handy so the idea of generating sweat equity even if only a little is always appealing to me. 

Detroit Metro taxes are fairly high (hire a tax appeals firm to lower them), insurance is higher than average in most places (call 10+ insurance providers to get quotes b/c the results vary quite a bit), and as you'll find through the forums, you must exercise extreme caution hiring property managers, contractors, etc (read many posts of investors getting ripped off).If done correctly, you can do very well.

The cash flow and long term financial benefits as you build up net worth over time are very appealing.

I'm leaning towards the newer smaller doubles hoping that this will give my community more curb appeal vs the many other parks nearby.  

Also, I've been thinking about charging tenants around 500 for rent to make a property more appealing and guarantee a tenant.

I do think its not a bad buy-and-hold property, but am trying to gauge whether the numbers would appeal to a buy-and-hold investor, or if the cash on cash return doesn't cut it.

I guess I would focus on the curb appeal.