It appears that both houses were doused in lighter fluid, and unit B was lit on fire.

While I didn't get super creative and stuck with nearly the same colors I picked from the builder to start with, I went a bit lighter and warmer on the main color, a bit warmer on the trim, and then went from a straight blueish black to an earthy brown-black on the door.

Dark stains like walnut are richer and add elegance as well as help to anchor and showcase furniture better as long as the furniture is lighter tones and color.

Lighter will make it appear larger and darker will make it appear smaller.

Lighter colors are coming back and they actually show less dirt than dark.

So is the Oak color if you want something lighter.

The line on the left between the lighter and darker wood is where it gives when you step on it and where there is a pretty good lip between the two types of wood.

I'd also change the color to something a little lighter (toffee or cappuccino).If getting rid of the deck, a nice stone patio with stone stairs from the house, short wall opposite the house, two nice open entry points on each side and a fire pit.The possibilities are endless.  

I saw a lighter on his bed and a bong in the other bedroom but no cigarette butts.  

**Some lighter PM softwares are Appfolio & Buildium.