From the looks of it they need minor repairs (haven't had my contractor really I spectrum yet)- mostly aesthetic.

However, after our inspection we are confident that there is nothing structural/mechanically wrong, just aesthetics need to be improved.

Decide whether the tree is aesthetically pleasing and adds value to the property, or if it would be better to take it out and make a change to the landscape design.Hire a qualified arborist to examine the tree and give a professional opinion about it's health and whether it poses a danger to property or people.If the tree passes muster, then ask the arborist for guidance on how to best take care of the tree.

If you stray too far from neighborhood norms for regular resale or rehabbed homes, your house can sit for months due to a design aesthetic that doesn't match consumer demand. 

They don't care about the aesthetics, they care about functionality.I think you are overthinking it. 

(I improve the places I live in for my own aesthetical peace, though these improvements didn't cost me a penny.

If the stucco terminates above grade, there is generally a sealant used cover up the foundation from the bottom of the stucco to grade (mostly for aesthetic purposes).

My current fav for wall color is SW aesthetic white in satin with Behr ultra white semi-gloss trim paint.

And then there are the deals your talking about which is basically lower end stuff.. when I bought my 350 C class.. we did just that new hvac windows roof plumbing to the street and bathrooms we spent little to no money on aesthetics..

That being said, due to the nature of the city - it is aesthetically very nice - and the excellent schools, it is a good place for rentals.