mostly aesthetic choices What was the outcome?

On top of all the aesthetic updates, I also had to replace the AC, which included updated a lot of the electric, new hot water heater, appliances, some plumbing, installed a brand new shower/bath in the master, etc.

I have made a few minor repairs, but aesthetically, I removed the chain link fence in the front to open up the view.

Their "rent" would cover the costs of the loan while we fixed the garage unit to be income producing, and they would continue to pay utilities, etc.Garage apartment needs some work, but almost all aesthetic and will be income producing within a month.

Aesthetic?

Things that impact the grade of the location include: proximity to amenities, crime rates, average household income, proximity to employment (and the type of employment), aesthetics of the neighborhood, proximity to restaurants, shops & bars (and the quality of those restaurants, shops & bars), proximity to schools / colleges / universities (and the quality of those institutions), the grades of the surrounding properties, etc., etc. 

Only thing I'd consider is aesthetics.

Aesthetics are a concern of mine, but I'm curious about the gas fireplace with a side vent... does that mean that it would have some alternative venting mechanism to a chimney?

Other than that, they are not as aesthetically pleasing (not sure about that with technology now) but they do the trick.

It's worth the extra spend for its durability and aesthetic.