I'm also pretty skilled at all areas of design (I have my BFA in fashion design, part of the draw of my current home for Air BNB is how it's decorated, and I worked as a graphic designer to pay part of my way through college).

Buying a single family home means you're covering all these costs as well.Don't forget about the additional upfront costs especially since they're new builds, furnishings, decor, electronics, cable/internet, small appliances, kitchen wares, window treatments, etc.    

Hey @Chris Modzeleski Instead of boarding up the windows, install the decorative window bars to prevent the crazies from breaking into your property.

This tenant is unique though as she’s a great housekeeper very friendly and has it decorated nice which makes it appear better than it actually is lol I think it really just depends .

He sees my décor in the living room and says "Fook yeah we'll take this house". 

REPAIRS AND ALTERATIONS: RESIDENT shall make a WRITTEN REQUEST to OWNER/Agent regarding any repairs, decorations or alterations contemplated.

@Adam CraigSlate blue with white accents will made the gable decoration stand out properly, The biggest obstacle to really adding some period-appropriate fanciful decoration are the severe Tuscan columns.

Also, make sure you build in enough for janitor/maintenance/repair/cleaning/decorating/supplies/management (even if it's you now)/Misc.

I typically do a Decorating Fee of $250, which allows me to make minor updates between tenants but it is not related to cleaning. 

No more going into a cold attic to get the holiday decorations!