The tenant's unit does not have to be as nice as yours, but be sure it is nice enough to bring in the best rent you can command. Will it need much in the way of repairs? Can you make them or will you have to farm out the work at high labor costs?

It is interesting what a few low-cost improvements can do to a rather boring apartment in an ordinary-looking house. Many a professional renovator has made a bundle by adding touches that resulted in higher rents than the average (and a nice, higher sales price when it was time to move on).

For example, when looking at the tenant's kitchen, consider new doors (and doors only) for bedraggled cabinets. You might add a mantelpiece to the living room, even if there is no fireplace (and even if there's no possibility of putting one in). The opening can be filled with a basket of flowers or greens. The mantel provides a focal point for the living room and is a very desirable decorative feature.

Keep wallpaper neutral and paint even more so. White is preferred throughout.

You might have the floors sanded if they are hardwood. That is often the flooring of choice these days. If the house is an old one, a medallion around the ceiling lighting fixture in at least one room can be added at low cost. Ceiling fans add an interesting touch, besides being practical and energy saving. All of these expenses should be included in your doodling as you walk through houses and estimate your fix-up costs.