Many, well nearly every neighborhood that I've studies, go through the same process of transformation.

Franklinton is transforming before our eyes.

I feel like gentrification is like wildfire right now and the other previously drug ridden neighborhoods will be transformed as a function of time.

The University started this program around 25 years ago and it helped to transform University City. 

Hi Kim,The house is screaming for a proper proper porch/entry with a portico... it would completely transform the front facade and give the house some much-needed curb appeal.That said, with your extremely limited budget, the next best solution would be build a MUCH bigger wood porch over the existing one (no demo cost, and it's below the entry treshold) that extends a few feet farther into the yard from the house, and if you can afford it, to the far right small window.Either way, build two simple fat columns at the corners of the porch that would be about a foot higher than the railing, and positioned just outside the two smaller windows flanking the entry door.Then, paint the entry door a deep, very rich burgundy.It probably would exceed your super-tight budget, but would absolutely be worth the investment.

Just keep in mind that when working deals you must be willing to transform yourself like a chameleon.

The first deal is transformational.  

The first deal you do is transformational.

Bigger the mess, bigger the transformation.

-COME FLIP MY HOU$E-LQQKING FOR SERIOUS REHABBERS*For homes that have completed the Rehab process I use words like, Completely renovated, all new ammenities, This ulgy duckling has transformed, Fully restored, come check me out!