Rehabbing for the aesthetically blind

[James Kojo]

One aspect of MFR re-positioning that has always intimidated me is the rehab phase.

I don't feel like I really have a good eye for aesthetics in terms of design, colors, layout, and materials.

I've done cosmetic upgrades before, but they were for A-class, single-family homes, so it was fairly easy since I could just choose stuff that I already have in my own home (hand-scraped hardwood floors, granite and marble surfaces, and brushed-nickel or bronzed finishes, etc.) But even there, I needed to get a lot of advice from sales people and others.

If I'm going to do a gut-rehab on a MFR, what are my options for getting advice on design, colors, layout and materials? Do I just hope that the contractor can figure it out, or should I hire specialist? If so, what specialists do I need?

Thanks!

James