I love the term price improvement  :)  rural W Wa I suspect is buyers market but in some of those town the lack of inventory keeps things moving. 

I also want to explore improved land purchases to put a manufactured home on.

If there are improvements made, then you should be able to cash out on the new appraised value without any seasoning restrictions.

By definition all 44 contractor classifications have passed the state exam and adhere to the laws of the CSLB & Consumer affairs.Any handyman performing work over $1000 is in violation of Business & Professions code 7028.1Any handyman performing work over $1k is subject to forfeiture of the entire sum of "contracted" work B&P code 7031(b)All California home improvement contracts must be a quoted upfront price including labor, materials, warranty etc.

You could also explore small improvements or optimization for your current property to maximize returns.

Quote from @Hilary Sackor: Hey, I am currently struggling with searching for good areas in the city that would make for a great place to invest, with hopes that the area will continue to improve and become more renter-friendly.

Supply Is Rising… Even With Fewer ListingsNew listings hit a record low, but inventory still rose - because homes aren’t sellingMonths Of Inventor now 3.6 → highest August in more than a decade for both Reno and Washoe overall🎯 Best Investor Plays Right NowOlder Listings: 30+ DOM could mean more flexible sellersWithdrawn/Expireds: 11% pulled off market → direct-to-seller outreach could be goldFall Timing: As we move into the Fall/Winter months, seller pessimism may rise, improving ability to negotiate

I'm trying to figure out which core improvements move the needle the most for the WNY buyer/appraiser.

Any "improvements" they make stay with the house, of course.

Lenders view that more cleanly than a retail contractor loan.Pay cash if you can swing it — then it’s just a capital improvement that boosts the property value, no monthly hit to your DTI.If selling soon: a new metal roof is a great selling point.