Painting outside brick and removing tree

[pfreckna]

I just bought a house in Arlington, Virginia and want to make it look as nice on the outside as possible. Considerations are;

1. Removing the big tree out front (see picture).
2. Painting brick white (several houses on the line are white and look more cottage-like, but I've read it makes a place less attractive).
3. Adding window boxes and adirondack chairs.

(In the picture the house begins and ends where the frond bricks by the sidewalk are newly mortared).

Any and all comments and sugestions are most welcome. I have no eye for these things and appreciate any ideas you may have.

Thanks,

Petra