We are going to replace the ceiling fan and light fixtures, and spruce up the backyard landscaping. 

Rich Dad, Poor Dad is probably the best book for helping people to see money, real estate and assets in general in a different light. 

Check light bulbs and things like that.

Repainting all the buildings and re doing some exterior lighting along with a code change issues that we were just notified of. 

The ratio thing doesn’t really work here but you can look into submetering the meter that is supplying the common area.Just a random thought, I’m not sure of your specific situation but say your common area has two lights both of which are fed from the unit 1 breaker box (2 dIfferent circuits).

@Dmitriy Fomichenko and @ brian Eastman may shed some light for you with more information.

That is a major flashing light to attract a suite.

If you're going with dark and stainless appliances you may want to look at something like a light charcoal grey.I wouldn't paint the counter tops either.

I place a hot plate there for the residents do some light cooking.  

Craig Home Improvement (haven’t worked with him personally but I hear good things from my colleagues) Phillip Miller (Worked with him he was great and professional)Dallas Reeves Home improvement All do light construction and cosmetic I don’t know how extensive you need but they should be able to get the job done.