As simple as it sounds, the house could really go bungalow with a few additions, but I would go into houzz images for exteriors. That way you get a full view as opposed to more subjective ones. Then once you find a style you like you can ask from there. It won't be as daunting. Best of luck, jamie

Does your house have a view? You could do some dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows in whichever room has the best view. Two things that would add drama and curb appeal are: one, change the windows/window trim and two, rebuild the entry. The second story entry seems a bit lost. Adding a front wraparound deck and overhang would make the entry more substantial. It could potentially connect the back patio with the front yard giving you more outdoor entertaining space. Also, a warmer paint color would make the house, while modern, seem more friendly and coordinate with the neighbors house behind. I might also paint/stucco the bottom a darker shade than the upper two floors. Like wearing pants and a shirt! You have a lot of potential with this house!

I should say that we live in a very strict city and the house is already maxed out for the lot. Everything we do has to be esthetic changes, no additions. I've spent a lot of time perusing exteriors and I know we definitely love contemporary I'm just trying to figure out how to turn our house as close as possible to what we like. I've attached a couple of samples. Another challenge is that my husband doesn't want the maintenance of fancy wood on the exterior, even though I love it. The other thing is that the windows are one of the few things that have been updated well in the house so we want to keep them and their trim is white. I'm worried about some of the darker colors contrasting too much with so many windows.

Wood for the exterior doesn't need to be high maintenance, perhaps the same attention is needed as stucco.

1st impression, eliminate the stairs to the front door by extending an entrance porch across the front of the house with an addition of a new entrance side walk from the street at the high side. While I assume there is an interior staircase off the garage this would not only allow you not to fight gravity every time you bring items home, it would also allow handicapped access to the home.