What style is most desirable to renters these days (light, dark, modern, classic, ect?) 

I still drive my favorite vehicle for modern times.  2010 Chevy Z71 1/2ton Suburban that is loaded with all I need and rides like a car. 176,000 and counting.  

Dishwasher I had laying a few years probably 300.labor 750 including appliance install.Backsplash tile was an expensive modern subway in matte, but it was left over from my primary....

I agree -- country chic or modern farmhouse is a good look to go for when painting paneling.

I intend to get flood insurance but have been very surprised about wind insurance, both that it is a separate insurance policy and that it is much more expensive than flood insurance.The house I am buying is modern construction (say last 20 years) and brick.  

You are updating the paint to a very popular color in agreeable gray so that will give the home a modern touch and new carpet that compliments that will still look very nice.

Now the entire interior, roof, and foundation were remodeled and modernized with only touch-ups to the front exterior of the home. 

. #3) many of the owners haven't done any decent upgrades to attract modern tenants.

Todays high capacity pump,,,fast dump washers will work on an inch and a half but things have to be perfect condition to do so.  2" is the 'modern' size to take the volume. 

Not that they deserve it, or because modern tech doesn't negate the problem, but just because.I'll be looking into Boomerang... thanks @John D.