Real estate is a large, functioning market and if the property was worth more than the debt/encumbrances against it the owner would have sold it 99.9% of the time.  

To address the type of flooring material, first off, if you want a "luxury impression," stay away from the laminate fake wood.I would consult a local expert, but that said, I understand engineered products--with a substantial veneer thickness that's able to be sanded and refinished--are both functional and comparatively inexpensive to install over a grade-level slab.In terms of color, this is always subjective (and depends on what's going on with the kitchen finishes), but I would recommend a mid-tone finish for a flip.

For example, let's say the property "can't" go Fannie because it isn't a complete & functional home, and let's suppose the reason for that is because the kitchen is not complete, and the reason the kitchen isn't complete is because it doesn't have an oven.Standard two choices that people think they have:Hard money, 2 points up front, 70% down, 3 points upfront, horrible rate.All cash.Third choice:With the seller's permission, throw a freaking $75 oven from craigslist in there the day before the appraiser shows up, and buy the SFH using Fannie financing at 85% LTV, no points. 

I would be looking at outlying areas with the largest potential for growth in the next 10 years.

The layout and functionality of the home is going to have a larger impact on its rentability than forced air vs. wall heaters.Yes, make sure your lease is solid.  

The tenant has expressed multiple times the desire to change things (paint) but never actually did so I am taking this with a grain of salt and told her we would discuss again when she is ready to move forward.Whenever that tenant moves out, I would probably have to replace the current carpet due to age and mini blinds are also old (but functional), which is why I am considering the idea.In any case, I would be reviewing quotes, finances and contractor and figure out a way to make sure the work will be finished before I OK the change.

So I would still remove any carpet in bathrooms but only deep clean dirty carpet (if possible) and just make sure the kitchen baths are functional.  

In the last 16 years I have worked in various functions as it relates to finance, real estate and construction.

Treat your rental property business as a business and plow as much of your earnings (W-2) and cash flow (Schedule E) in to reserves, future down payments and debt elimination. 3G Capital has used this approach for 30-40 years in brewery purchases and is now the world's largest brewer having started with no beers sold.

Definitely no growth, but the franchise is one of the largest in the world that is the stand alone tenant.