If your windows were properly installed, they should not leak. You might want to talk to a local contractor and engage them in helping you get to the bottom of that leaking issue. Some windows are not rated for areas that get high force winds during rain storms and that could also be part of the problem. I think the exterior of your house is quite nice. I think it could be enhanced further by painting the 'wood extensions' a much darker color (maybe a dark brown color) to contrast with the mainly stucco parts of the house. This would make for a more interesting exterior and give some differentiation to those those elements of the house.