Any Renovation Advice?

[AJ P.]

Hey everyone, I’m super lucky and excited that I have my first property under contract. It’s a nice duplex that needs some renovations, but nothing more than new floors, paint, kitchens, and bathrooms. Since everyone here has so much experience, I was just wondering if anyone had any general advice for me as I go through this process? I have a fairly detailed budget and I’m working with a family friend contractor that’s helping me with everything. I'm going to sand and paint the current kitchen cabinets because they are in great shape and could save a lot on my budget by preserving the current ones. I plan on doing a neutral paint color like beige on all the walls, white trim & ceilings, and LVT everywhere on the main floor (except the living room). I was thinking I'd do carpet upstairs for the tenants comfort. My contractor advised against doing LVT on the stairs (said it just always looks bad) so it seems like I’ll put carpet there (didn't want to do this but there's no hardwood underneath the current carpet). The showers/bathtubs are a really odd blue color, but are in really good shape so I was leaning towards leaving them. I think a walk in shower would look much better, but obviously it would be a lot more expensive and it’s the only shower/ tub in the house so I’m not sure if tenants would want or need a tub in the house (especially if they have little kids). I plan on gutting the rest of the bathrooms and making them more modern than what's currently there. Any advice on these items or any other general advice as I renovate here I greatly appreciate!