I would ballpark the repairs/upgrades to be about $6k/unit, with roughly $5k more going into exterior repairs/upgrades.

Plus, a number of the cabinets were locked with magnetic locks (which we had to remove) and we found that one set of cabinets lead to the wide open entrance into the crawl space!! 

I wanted to ask some more experienced landlords -- What can I do (as cost effectively as possible) to help make the exterior of the building look more inviting and modern without overspending?

Recently moved to FL and will rehab my first house in this climate.  1,200 sq ft house with 0 exterior wall insulation and NO vapor barrier. 

I was pleased with my real estate agent, the date it closed she had the painter lined up to begin the interior painting and exterior staining.

This is usually the hardest part of due diligence because agents don't want to waste their time working for no money so you can try to offer $50-100 for them to perform an exterior BPO.

Some of the larger expenses-Interior/Exterior Paint, Storm shutters for a few of the front large windows, added additional cabinets to one unit, New refrigerator from Dent/Scratch store after old one died, Laundry units that tenant pays +$50/mo for etc.

Remodeled the entire property: new kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, painting interior and exterior, landscaping, new roof on back unit, opened up kitchen to living room in front unit.

There are some skills that I suggest every homeowner learns in order to avoid high repair bills (in order I usually do them):-Fix minor roof leaks & repair siding/exterior-Fix water supply leaks with compression fittings or hose clamps if needed-Install lights, replace bad receptacles, switches, or breakers-Install electric water heater if needed-Fix subfloor & sturdy up framing if needed-Fix/replace windows/doors/glass and install locks-Drywall/mud, brush&roll paint-Install floor (floating/tile) and cut/install trim-Install toilets/sinks/cabinets/faucets-install mini split units if no functioning ductwork

Major HOA items are roofs, exteriors, and foundations.