@Shade Cromer, As you're reading more in books, and these forums/podcasts, look for a new concept that you may be a candidate for: "house hacking".It may be the easiest way for you to launch from "renting" to "owning" your first property.

I asked if I could put a shade on his window at my expense and he was perfectly fine with it. 

Next time, you talk to Dallas branch, give them your specs, shade/color, finish, price range, then ask for sample packet sent to Chicago.

They have wide plank vinyl (especially the darker solid colors) that look like wood.

They will make your life miserable (or shades of grey of course).2) Have you done this type of busines before? 

Checking the code, it says "Every window of every room let to another for sleeping purposes and the windows of bath and toilet rooms used in conjunction with such sleeping rooms shall be supplied with shades, draw drapes, or other devices or materials which when properly used will afford privacy to the occupant of the room.

I had one home where the renter left ( moved out) there is the poor pit in the back yard no shade no water skin and bones  just un believable how they treat these dogs.. its sickening.. really. 

Also heard someone recommend painting white cabinets into darker colors. 

Also, many of us have shades of 2008 crash in our minds, but it is highly unlikely that the next down turn will look anything like that. 

My experience is that like most synonyms in English, these mean the same thing but with slightly different shades of meaning.