I'm not 100% sure of the cost to refinish the floors, but am considering it strongly because of the durability and aesthetics of hardwood. 3) Recommendations on flooring for the kitchen?

I have usually noticed that they are used as background color accents for the most part, and don't have a lot of aesthetic value in and of themselves. 

Because the trees won't die as a result - they'll just look like crap for years to come - I imagine I cannot financially penalize them for the 'aesthetic' harm to my trees.How should I address this in future leases? 

The value I bring is on the remodel and aesthetic side.  

Much of our budget won't go into aesthetics but I think curb appeal is important.

I don't want to work a full time job watching homes appreciate so that my punk *** kids can be loaded one day (this is seriously how it looks to an outsider in California, young folks just waiting for a death to cash in).

He is not hurting for money, but is tired of the complaints from neighbors about the aesthetics of the existing structure left behind after demo. 

That the aesthetics and amenities of downtown that I love would keep rent up and my property occupied. 

If the property is solid, the neighborhood is good, and it TRULY is turnkey ready (not just aesthetics) and numbers add up to a net positive flow, even a low one, you're still getting a good (and increasing) total return because of the equity build up over time. 

@Adam Craig  36 or 42 usually will look more aesthetically pleasing and balanced than the 30s.