The place didn't need more than cosmetics and ne carpet, but we didn't make as much either.

Focus your effort on the backsplash, as it serves a utilitarian purpose, as well as cosmetic.

If you are planning on making this a routine meet up, my partner and I would love to come to the next one.  

I figured I could offer some cosmetic upgrades to make up for it.

I then spend another 25 hours finding and supervising contractors, 15 hours dealing with governmental authorities to obtain permits, occupancy certificates, etc. 15 hours doing cosmetic repairs myself to save money, and 20 hours showing the property, running ads and negotiating leases for renters.So I have purchased a "great deal", a property that I now have $10,000 equity above what I have invested.  

Expenses such as; (utility(water/sewer), property management, property taxes, cap ex, vacancy, routine monthly maintenance, insurance, lawn care/snow removal) divided by principle and interest of loan.DSCR =   cash after expenses NOI                 ______________________                            Principle+interest on loan.DSCR is a indicator to lenders about how well your property can support repayment of your debt.

My sweet spot is 1980s-1990s ... these can still be nice B-class neighborhoods, new enough to have modern construction (no lead paint, no asbestos), they less likely to have HOAs (or HOA fees), they are old enough to be "cosmetic fixers" (dated finishes in paint, floor, trim, fixtures, etc. that are easy to fix and add a ton of value by fixing) but not usually old enough to have major issues to other home systems (structure, electric, plumbing, HVAC, water heater, roof, etc. ... stuff behind the walls that take a lot to fix but don't add as much value per cost), and they have larger lots (remember, the long term value is in the dirt, the house itself is an improvement on the land and depreciates in value, just like taxes say).

@Camille Hubbard, Personally, I would go the "make waves" routine aka blow smoke and see what happens.

One needed cosmetic updating and the other a total remodel.

Replacing that rotted out bathroom floor because the tenant didn't want to bother you about a leaking toilet because he'd be charged $50 - you'll have wished otherwise about that charge.As a hands on landlord, I enjoy getting asked to do routine maintenance as it gives  a chance to see your property.