Windows & Siding

We've been meeting with window and siding people the last couple of weeks. We finally got a reasonable estimate, and the contractor was really nice, but when we went to look at the houses he listed for us to check out, we were far from impressed. I mean, the quality of the work was fine, but seriously, can we talk about how hideous vinyl siding is? It's awful. And retrofitting windows should be illegal. My soul is hurting a little. Why can't people just sell us nice, paintable siding? Why are American people so allergic to home maintenance that somehow, vinyl has become the norm. Obviously, I'm being dramatic, but just look at these houses!

And the windows!

Look at how sad their recessed trim is. And how tiny they look - like little portholes, as Eric would say.

Obviously, vinyl would be fine and work and be affordable....but I'm hoping we can drum up a few other options. Are there other affordable options? And, more importantly, will they look good?