If done correctly (with windows, nice stone finish material, etc), it could be an architectural asset as well.With some proper professional landscaping (maybe also cut out a planter along the side of house), and addressing the driveway issues, that should eliminate the aesthetic liabilities and give you an amazing amount of curb appeal.There are other possibilities for completely redesigning the approach to the entry (straight off the front with a right-angle landing and a gabled portico), but would involve a lot more demo-ing, building, and expense.Similar to this:http://www.houzz.com/photos/17493/Becker-Architect...

Pairing them with good pulls is critical, a 4" wire pull doesn't cut it anymore as far as aesthetics go.

Does the architectural style of the house lend itself to just doubling down on the mid-century modern aesthetic?

At most, as @Scott Mac said, drywall the vent for sake of aesthetics. 

When we purchase a property, we always look into what permits have been pulled in the past to better evaluate the value and integrity of the structure and it's surrounds.You wouldn't need permits for aesthetic elements such as: Cleaning, painting or refacing cabinetry.Replacing cabinet knobs and drawer pulls with simple, modern hardware.Installing new countertops on existing cabinets.Replacing backsplashes.Updating lighting fixtures.Updating plumbing fixtures.Replacing floor coverings.Painting over existing interior and exterior surfaces.

It needs a some work:- new kitchen- aesthetics to bathrooms- new paint job** There could be more to it, but what i am getting at is how could one get this under contract at a fair price to either whole sale or fix and flip?

They are more or less equal durability-wise so it is really an aesthetic choice (and a “modern-ness” choice)

As long as there are retail sales comps of "good condition" properties occurring in the immediate area of your distressed/REO/short sale subject property, such that your ARV's are real and not made up, then of course you can create equity.Now, if 80% of the sales in that area are distressed/REOs/short sales in the prior 6 mths, then that's another matter, and you need to be cautious about being able to realize forced appreciation.Many retail buyers can't or won't even entertain the idea of buying a distressed property, due to financing issues, lack of funds to renovate the property themselves, hassle factor w/ living in a construction zone for a month, aesthetics, all kinds of reasons.

This would be the most expensive route, but it would also be the aesthetically pleasing way to do it.

Greys look good in spaces with clean lines and a more modern aesthetic.