Okay, I didn't take time but to scan the replies, but didn't see that anyone mentioned screening in the covered porch on the left. It would be quite easy to do so using the ScreenTight system. Just frame above the bricks with two by fours then add the system linked below. We did this to our front porch and it's the best thing we ever did. Not only does it work great for humans, but our pets love having access to the "outside" world while still being kept safe from all that's outdoors. I also want to add my vote to NOT paint the brick, keep shutters and if your garage doors are in good working condition I'd check and see the arches are removable before buying a new garage door. There are faux techniques to change the look further too. Here is a link that might be useful: ScreenTight

Wendy, I am with you that the rock facing is quite unattractive, and IMO it can't be saved with paint or other camouflage such as plants. It is different from your inspiration photo in that the inspiration photo looks like stacked stone and is in the foundation area, not flat stones fastened on fairly randomly as siding, oriented like tile. If funding allows, remove it. If not, see if it can be covered up with stucco or siding without needing to then fix or replace windows. As a last resort, plan to plant at least some taller shrubs with flowers or other interest to distract from that stone once the hardscape issues are solved. Rethink the entry; remove some of the paving along the garage (or at the very least add some large planters there) and take out the brick wall to make it feel more welcoming. Pull out the skinny bed under the eaves across the front because it really isn't large enough for plants or proportional to the size of the house. Replace the bed with one that is at least 6' deep from the front of the house - that will give you at least a foot between the house and the ultimate size of the plantings (for maintenance) as well as room for more than a single straight line of plants.

Bob. . I like the flagstone backyard patio. What direction of sun hits that area? Is it shaded by the house -allowing you to enjoy that space in the afternoons? I have a few questions.... from an AGING buyer's standpoint that has me concerned about this home. What is the winter weather in that area? Snow & ice?. If so, then a garage pergola would lead to additional icicles. So, maybe add wider trim all around Windows and garage as well as a border trim from the stone. . I'd give you a mock-up image, but I don't have that capability- sadly. I noticed a slope from the front lawn to the walkway & garage. Melting snow freezing overnight temps will make an ice field or puddle walkway when the garden patch near the garage becomes saturated. Maybe a low retaining wall is needed to deviate the run-off? TRI-level Do you want this to be your forever home or good enough for a while home? Aging tends to couple with decreased mobility and a big risk for falls. Muti staircases and basement laundry can be remedied by chair lifts, but you'll need several.

Also I should probably add that the roof is slated to be replaced, so we‘re not bound by current roof color.