The original sliding door going out to the deck may be beyond repair, and I'm looking for ideas on how best to spend $$ to replace it. 

What's the max comparable rents if the units were decked out?

Consider this:  It's used as roof decking, subfloors, and more, and it does just fine.  

With that said, I still use the Blade and get my highest quality renters from there still.

I like white for the windows/trim.Are you adding a deck or porch to the front?

You do need a razor blade to get the thick paint off but it is a breeze to do with a little moisture.

Clean fan motor and blade.

We have a family member who hired local Big bear worker to do patio deck recently.

Every time my dad would come to visit, we always has a project waiting - like a deck, or a shed, or a laundry room.

I would plan for that scenario when, Murphy's law, two appliances break, you need a new deck, and the place is vacant a month or even two (check your vacancy rate for example)..Of course, much of your success may depend on your landlording skills (the quality of tenants, the potential damages, costs of turnarounds, your ability to secure good tenants promptly etc).