So, if you're considering putting money in, my opinion is to put it into functional items, not purely aesthetic ones like molding...Just my $.02...

Obviously aesthetics will need to be gone over between renters.

That way some of the wall can come down (or be opened up at least) while keeping the aesthetic of a fire place?

Both those things would add to the aesthetic appeal of the place.

More aesthetically pleasing and it can soak a lot of dishes.

(I'm trying not to let my aesthetic "emotions" get the best of me..I'm a designer..) 

Loss of structural integrity such as leaks, and loss of aesthetics.

In addition, you could add small canopy's to the top of the windows for aesthetics and also as a sun block.Through both you will get alignment of the windows, some vegetation or color from the flower beds, and added aesthetics for a relatively cost efficient price.I agree with @Gilbert that earth tones might work really well with this very low rise complex particularly since you're wanting to avoid installing grass.

And this using a 203K FHA loan in the brutal market of Boston, on the east side of the Port Norfolk bay area.Facts & Numbers:2 beds & 2 baths on each of the 3 unitsPurchased for $655K @ 5% down-payment and a generous dose of 203K closing feesTaken a 30K cushion for the 203K streamlined rehabLocked in 4.25% @ 30 year interest rateAppraised at 750KThe numbers are certainly not the exquisite definition of what a ground-breaking deal stands for, but they certainly fare decently well in this seller's market where cash investors rule, the inventory is constantly challenged and most properties are getting sold for over asking price, taking advantage of the current interest rates, the Everett Casino construction, and a few other speculative but pragmatic plays.Just like most everyone else that was not raised or surrounded by real estate professionals from a young age, this deal was pretty much riddled with small mistakes here and there, from neglecting the fire department smoke and carbon detector regulations, being over-optimistic on the underwriting guidelines, underestimating the cost opportunity due to all sorts of processing delays, and you name it.Currently free from tenants, the expectation is to add value by rehabilitating the under-developed basement, adding 2nd and 3rd floor balcony decks, and a variety of practical and aesthetic fixes.

The greater advantage you will have is the ease of access from your property to the school, the type of neighborhood it is in and aesthetics of the place inside and outside.