Can't see the details, but at first glance, you could paint the taupe arched areas a darker color, like dark chocolate and it would look sleek.

I like it but the brown gutters going down the front would need to be moved for sure. I think a shade of white would be pretty. You might have to change out the dark wood in the openings on the brick fence unless that is iron. If its iron then I would leave the iron. Its hard to tell by the picture. I would remove the short palm tree in the front too. It all depends on what look you like. I would try to add Mediterranean flare to it. A big window where the palm tree is would of course be beautiful. Good luck! I know how stressful it can be.

I don't think the house is ugly. I would buy it if it was in a good neighbourhood.

Painting the brick dark chocolate brown would be a good solution for a dramatically different look that would make the gutters "disappear" until a larger renovation is planned. Working with an architect to do a facelift would be an excellent idea for the future. But for the meantime, removing the centered palm, painting the brick on the front and pressure washing the brick fencing would go a long way.

Is that part of the house on the right side of the photo, or is that a neighbor? Is the section with the arches a garage or living space?

It could be spectacular or quietly graceful if the paint colors were changed. Try uploading the photo to the Sherwin Williams paint visualizer. Suggestions above for landscaping changes are excellent.