The common area has vaulted ceilings and a patio slider that goes out to the shaded private backyard so the tenants will have some nice outdoor space as well.

I also prefer a brighter look, so lighter paint shades etc...Best of luck!

Most of the rot has been caused from water splashing off the ground on the siding and the tree shade keeping it moist and not letting it dry out.

States in the US have different shades of laws but follow Federal guidelines.

Big spaces with much light, darker.

Little details like switch plate and outlet covers, light shades and spotless windows make a big difference.I don't let anyone rush me or pressure me into seeing a dirty or cluttered unit. 

If we’re lucky we have 2-3 shades of tan we can choose from.

As for painting the vinyl windows, go talk to someone at the paint store and ask them what it takes, and if you're going with a dark color on the body of the house, you can do the vinyl a darker color, they don't have to be bright white.

In my area its customary that the shades are already in, and stay with property, A change needs to be agreed on.

In a situation where they repainted with a darker color, you could probably charge 100% the cost for a stain blocking primer coat.