You want to take a rundown house and transform it into a home where someone will be live and raise a family in.  First you will want to plan and envision the details of materials and colors you will need in order to make that transformation come true and will allow you to sell investment properties.  Look at the nearby homes and create a home that fits in but is also individual so it will stand out and get potential buyers attention.  Be sure to choose the right color of paint for both inside and outside.  New flooring and window coverings will also have a lot to do in the feelings of the buyers when they first walk through the door.