Brick has good curb appeal and generally won't look run down, so from an outsider perspective just looking at the street on Google Maps, it looks pretty good.

Even if it does not impact the price directly, it is more appealing specially if the tenant been there for some time. 

What about it is more appealing than something more passive such as mutual funds?

Once you find a niche -or specialty- that appeals to your personality, risk level and financial situation, then you'll start to discern who is who and make connections appropriately. 3.

Sometimes with a failing septic system there are visual clues even if the water is off. 

One one, the guy had a lawyer (hired by someone else not the tenant) and the lawyer appealed eviction which would have dragged it on for months.

The appeal of a tiny home depends on personal taste and life need (Google "med cottage").

Quality pictures: With today’s technology, you do not need to hire a professional photographer unless you are appealing to the high-end executive rental market or you are competing with vacation rentals that will be using the same pictures over and over again.

In this case, the first lender's whiny attitude and emotional appeal that I'm taking food out of his kids' mouths doesn't sit well with me at all. 

At this point I would say I know nothing other than it’s a dream of mine and I am generally passionate about homes and making them as appealing as possible... lol...