Of course, this was no bed of roses: we put a lot of work into these - roof leaks, flooded floors, painting, clogged toilets, annoying tenants - you name it.Today, we are contemplating selling one house and putting the profits into SP500.

Have prices rose, sure they have and more than most place around the country.  

(Test with food coloring)

Tenants crack them and then it's difficult to match the colors as they are changed so rapidly these days.

Also, unfortunately these properties are not mine.These properties would be good inspo for the wallpaper ideas or maybe even a little paint to add color and catch people's eye.

I am looking to install new countertops and have the cabinets painted a medium gray color. 

Dark colored tile with dark colored grout is best.

In terms of paint color- I tend to choose paints last based on the rest of the architectural finishes. 

The warm color makes the space look sunny and inviting. 

It can help you with the concept if you give some direction, like 'I want something midcentury modern' or 'design me a cabin with modern rustic touches featuring a green and brown color palette.'