Reading is nice but if you really want to commit, you need to sit down with a mentor and discuss a plan of action that will be suited to your current life style or work schedule.  

Charcoal greys are in style for colors!  

I recently looked briefly at a parcel a newer developer was looking at that could support something like 20 units/ac for 34 total units, but he wanted to do townhouse/duplex style buildings on their own lots.

I don't recall anyone installing an old style phone line since I have owned the building.

They are condo style apartments which demand more rent in our area. 

. :)   I know the idea of decking over probably sounds like a hack and that it would look terrible, but I was inspired by the old craftsman style wooden front porches when I decided how to finish it out and used it as an opportunity to add a little personality to the front of the house. 

However, when you read the other comments on here you should get a sense from a couple of people that this is a high-risk style of investment.  

The house is in a decent (c+) neighborhood, and is quite outdated inside as far as styling.

My investing style may be different than yours, so run a few properties and see how you like them.Best of luck and happy investing!

It has no architectural appeal or real style at all, but it could easily be added by redoing the portico and adding a very wide step or two... it's a huge feature on such a small house, and would add maximum effect and style for not much money.As mentioned, landscaping is a must.