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OK, I am taking a break from my greenskin brothers and going to do my best being a lapdog for the Emperor.

I am getting ready to strip down the original SM models I first painted (extremely poorly) and going to start a new.

My question is, what signifies the difference between Vanguard & Sternguard from regular tactical marines? Granted the weaponry is different, but is there any physical changes to the armor itself I should be aware of? Is it just a matter of painting the trim and making the markings different?

Thanks in advance.

They have white helmets, more ornate armor, and some Crux Terminatuses on their shoulder pads.

They are veterans, this means they presumably have nicer/more ornate armor. Model that as you wish. White helmets are correct if you play blue marines, otherwise go with however your chapter designates it's veterans.
I'm using older marks of power armor. There isn't any game difference, they just stand out a bit from the normal marines

I gave my vets solid color helmets (I have quartered theme going) and a stripe down the middle of it. Distinguishes them from my officers.

As long as they easily stand out, it could be as simple as a helmet color. As long as their is no chance of confusion, no one should whine (well, no one of importance).
Tac marines:


Stern Guard: