Both properties were under market rent which allowed us to profit from raising rents to market levels, as well as additional rent increases realized from remodeling, and addition of amenities driving further value to the residents.

Buy value add and if I didn't have the cash, remodel each unit as it comes vacant with cashflow until all units are brought up to market standard. 

Should I let this tenant, if he does great work, repair the property if anything needs fixing, like leaking toilets?

I took out a HELOC on the home for 195,000 as a way to cover the home remodel.

If you have replacement vinyl windows, the house is freshly painted, and there's been a remodel of the house at some point in the last 25-30 years....it's typically on the order of 1-4k per unit. 

Then I added more value through the remodel by gutting it to the studs (almost) and turning it from very old and nasty to a modern masterpiece starter home.

I got standard toilets, and they have been giving me grief. 

I have a remodeled 25' x 50' pole barn (1,250 square feet) on my property in Yelm Washington.

BY REMODELING INTERIOR OF RESTAURANT AND ADDING AN ADDITIONAL FULL FUNCTIONING KITCHEN TO MAKE INDEPENDENT KITCHENS FOR 2 RESTAURANTS.

Bought low, remodeling the kitchen, master bath, and new flooring throughout.