Rosewood and other exotics will not necessarily be good for resale. As you say, keep it neutral. Maple or cherry are good choices. And you are correct, rosewood, ebony, and others will run you 500 or more just for material. Depending on how good the craftsmen is, the labor cost will be high. I've veneered many speakers in my day, to be done correctly is not an easy chore. Raw veneer will give a much better finished product than backed material, but is a lot more labor intensive.
What is the most popular wood finish ?
I am looking for opinions on wood veneers for my speakers that i am going to resell . I am about to have them professionally redone for resale . Any opinions on species that would bring me top dollar ? Maple , cherry, mohagony, are a few i am considering . Or is a black gloss automotive paint a good idea ? Thanks all .