I would recommend either painting the columns a lighter color, maybe trim color so they stand out more, or even boxing them in for a more architectural look.

If your wife is nervous about it, then start with properties that need lighter rehab (maintained well, but hasn't been updated in 30 years or clean, but you could add an additional bedroom or bath to build equity). 

Kate Robb you can paint vinyl if you either a) paint it a lighter color than it was manufactured as or b) use vinyl safe color formulas that are available at places such as Sherwin Williams.

In the rental I just did, I went with a darker brown tile (with a little bit of lighter brown, gray and a little green) and a darker brown grout.

I would go with vinyl and a lighter color.

Originally posted by Steven Maduro:I think it was regular 30.00 Behr paintthere is clearly a difference to how these two brands stretched outand since the blue over tan (color place) should have been harder to cover than tan over tan (Behr)I think the Behr fell short.but I have limited experience which is why I asked for other's opinions.I find it harder to cover white over white than a darker color over lighter color.

The difference is that though you'll be $30k lighter in either scenario, one has you dancing in your bellbottoms because you own 2 cash-flowing properties, the other doesn't. 

The crime hot map shows that the crim is lighter in comparison to other areas. 

The overall lift is lighter and you still get a higher upside on your cash flow.

Chip in the kitchen sink, all day lighter bulbs in the fixtures (and working), all plugs holding a plug tightly and not painted over, etc...A Turn inspection.I think this is a pretty house, but it needs some little things to make it rent ready... like fixing the broken concrete to the right of the bottom steps.Good Luck!