I've had my 50k mansion in Alakol since the first day after reset, and have realized that there are some improvements I'd like to make in my home. My suggestion is to allow those willing to spend the currants the ability to upgrade their 50k mansion to include a basement (or storm shelter). This would allow for an herb garden, and a dark patch (as well as other potential upgrades ~ possibly an area for machines?). I'd like to see this implemented like a street project: Have it cost an upfront "permit fee" and then be able to invite friends to come help work on your street project or just work on it yourself.
I'd easily spend an additional 50,000 currants for a basement in my home with a dark patch and a herb garden. The house could gain equity, so if it were sold it could still retain 80% of the value of the home and then 80% of cost of the upgrade as well (less the cost of street project supplies).
Also -- any chance we'll ever get the chance to decorate our homes to individualize them a bit more? I always found it odd that homes in Groddle Meadow were all fancy yet the mansions had no individuality.