Raising appraisal value: Split utilities or focus on renovations

Hi guys! Finally bought my first rental property. It is a duplex in need of a full rehab. I am wondering what appraisers focus on more with an investment property? NOI or condition and amenities. I can lower my monthly expenses $300 a month by splitting the gas and water, but it would cut into my rehab budget quite a bit. In a perfect world I would split utilities and do a full renovation, but for now I'd like to focus on getting a high appraisal and getting my money out of the deal. Then I would save up the money to convert the utilities over the next few years. Just wondering what you guys would do in this situation and knowing what to focus on for a higher appraisal. Thank you!