Ramblers, Cape's, classic (craftsmen) modern etc?  

Does anyone have a ballpark idea of how much it would cost to get one of these upgraded to a safe and modern panel?

In either case, provided there is not too much texture, you could remove the doors, and, perhaps, the boxes as well, and {spray} paint them {primer and finish coat(s)} and change the hardware to give a more modern look.

Are these properties you have your eyes on complete dumps and incomplete homes, or are they complete homes that are incredibly dated that need to be modernized? 

It sounds like you get a decent. rent as long as time keep moving forward and we become a more modern tech society your property will go up, i will hold it for a 4-5 years, till the next market regeneration.  

The house is modern or mid century style to pull off the planking.  

Great job on remodeling, love the modern look. 

Remember things like possibly having to heavy up electrical service to the house to support modern utilities, etc. 

agreed, don't paint the brick. you can allow the new owners to make that decision, or maybe dye it to be a more modern color like a darker brown or darker gray (i'm not a fan of red brick inside). and paint the bright brass black. but i LOVE the mid century style, it's very cool!

The municipality may approve to rezone but in order to get the occupancy permit the structure will have to be brought up to all modern building standards and to meet fire code.