Buying 1/2 of "rundown" duplex?

[Vonetta Booker]

Of the many potential rental properties I'm scoping out, I've come across a couple that look like they may work--however, they're half-duplexes/townhomes that are a little crappy looking on the outside.  You know the type where each side has a different owner and they either look mismatched (based on the owners' tastes) or one side is more run-down looking than the other. 

What can a buy-&-holder typically do in a situation like this?   I think curb appeal definitely plays a factor in attracting quality tenants, but I feel my options would be limited since I'd only own/have control over one side.  

On the flip side though, I like half-duplexes because they have lower, condo-like prices without the HOA fees--and w/ the higher # of bedrooms in general (usually 3/1.5 vs a condo's 2 or even just 1), one can command higher rents, depending on the area.

Oh, I dunno...thoughts, anyone?