(Flip) finished basement drop ceiling

[Jake Henrion]

 800 sq. Ft ranch full house FLIP..

First floor is completely finished and we have moved on to the basement

Finished basement has a drop ceiling with no possible way to drywall and plaster because of the HVAC ductwork. Only option would be to move the entire system to the attic which would cost thousands...

I'm looking for creative ideas that will take the buyers eyes away from looking straight up at drop ceiling tiles as soon as they walk in to the basement.  My eyes wouldn't leave the drop ceiling when I bought the house because there wasn't any wow factor to really focus on. I havent used any sub contractors on this FLIP as i am a plumber and generally handy in all other trades. Labor isn't an issue

I was thinking of bead board surrounding the basement throughout. House is on Cape Cod, MA and bead board is a popular product around here.

Other than that I haven't thought much about what I can add for a nice budget friendly feature and I'm looking for any ideas.

Thanks for any suggestions