If you are fairly liquid, buying down the rate is a viable option to keep monthly payment down and improve cashflow.

The proper designation is a HIC license(Home Improvement Contractor).

The land is a combination of forest and pasture with two storage sheds, a water well, and no other improvements.

If you can improve your comfort level in researching and identifying your preferences in these areas, you will be well on your way to choosing an amazing investment.

At the same time we did exterior improvements to the driveways, siding and pool that's improved curb appeal.

Can I do the mortgage amount higher than the purchase price in order to escrow money for home improvements on the property? 

Understanding the market - bought it under valued - came in with additional capital to improve units that desperately needed updating.

But starting out and it being something I enjoy and a skill I want to improve and a possible way to save money on certain jobs/not wait weeks and weeks for contractors, it's fun stuff haha. 

In the situtation you describd, IRS does not tax the acquisition cost nor cost of improvements you have made, just your true profit.

What is your strategy for improving a property?