By changing out some features, rerunning some ducts, to create separate laundry rooms, & doing some minor renovations/upgrades we were able to get the house ready to be ran as 2 separate units.

The issue: I have a 1974 fridge that seems like its going to give out soon (White color); a dishwasher that I would prefer to replace because it looks about 20 years old and would have concerns about how much life is left (Black color); and a newer electric range and hood (White color).

I've got a house that needs all new paint, any suggestions on color other than "off white" that you've used when oak trim is EVERYWHERE?

If you did something I would maybe paint the cabinets white and replace the counter top with a darker color.

I guess maybe you can see it as a good thing this guy showed you his true colors before you got involved in a deal with him!

He declined and instead mentioned contacting a lawyer, and made a few vague comments about how the contractors were people of color, which surprised me. 

You're true colors will show through, so if you are a good person, people will see that. 5.

lol  (maybe the current "color" doesn't match?)

Eliminate boiler, run duct, replace with furnace....water is a landlords arch enemy, mine anyway, and I will always eliminate it when an option to do so presents itself.

Could go with a cooler bright white or a warmer almost cream color.