At least one had a different exterior paint color. 

I have upgraded the units with things like luxury vinyl flooring, clean surfaces painted with good colors, good but non fancy kitchen cabinets.  

I keep track of checks and dates received.I use a SUM function to see how much is owed, how much outstanding and total interest rate.I can color code redeemed properties a different color.It is super easy to customize. and once you set it up it automates everything but entering the data once you get a redemption check or a deed.You can copy over the tab to a new one and start a new year with all your formulas intact.

Once you reach the price they are looking for it will change color and say "reserve price met".

Could you share what color (paint) you used for the walls?

Comes pre mixed in a nice grey color.

Not the ivory-colored boxes I'd imagined at all, in fact, highly customizable. 

If the value of the property in question rose during the intervening period, the equitable titleholder would keep the difference between the initial purchase price and final sale price. 

@Jay Hinrichs, I'm a quick learner so I was able to break into this MF space and rose to the top quickly in my market.

Thanks for adding some color and detail.