Some old installs wire right to the front of the home with the meter out front--maybe a status symbol in the horse and buggy days (Look Mable, old Earnest has that newfangled electricity), but not the most curb attractive look in modern times.Good Luck!

For rent by the room - make sure every bedroom has electronic locks and the entryway has their own code for each individual.

The value-add component will come operationally by increasing monthly rates as units become vacant, adding a website that will allow tenants to browse and rent units, sign leases and pay rent electronically.

Association membership, mls dues, and electronic lockbox fees just to start. 

BAN VACATION RENTALS, the worst plague of modern times. 

Then I'd make something that conforms with the downtown to blend it in, but with modern amenities (two or three story brick rowhouses work well in many downtown areas). 

These enhancements included a range of updates and repairs to modernize the home, improve functionality, and enhance aesthetic appeal, making it competitive in the local real estate market.Holding Costs: Throughout the renovation and sale process, holding costs amounted to $5,000.

Tell the guy to get electronic docs and you can sign from your phone.

So we can't compare ourselves to the rest of the world even though I love electronics and gadgets and am a nerd when it comes to a lot of these things.  

Have you thought of just renovation to make it more modern?