The in-store, in-stock laminates are cheaper versions of the made to order, at least these days and at Lowes.

I'm thinking they are most likely seeing what's in at the paint stores and going with neutral colors.

The Bigger Pockets book store if full of great books: https://www.biggerpockets.com/store

I actually used to work at the small hardware store there in Plano and then at the nearby Home Depot in Yorkville!

It's a small company who's willing to work with you, and you're one call from the store owner if needed.

I worked for Renters Warehouse for nearly two years and saw this happen far too often, unfortunately.

I am very interested to venture into Real estate and learn to  see what's in stored for me and what I can give back to society.

I actually live in Rockville though, so I keep an eye out for deals in that Rockville/North Bethesda area.It seems like my generations values proximity to metro, grocery store and decent appliances.

The Bigger Pockets book store if full of great books: https://www.biggerpockets.com/store

J Scott's book on Flipping Houses is a good resource on rehabbing, you can find it in the BP Store