For many people, the condition of a rental property’s exterior is just as important as its interior. So, how can you as landlord attract high-end renters with your home exterior? Here are a few changes you can make to your house that will result in positive outcomes.
Keep Your Landscaping Neat and Simple
Your landscaping will set your rental property apart and attract the crowd. What good landscaping does to your rental is it adds a touch of class and polish even if your property lacks some other interior amenities. No matter where your rental is located, you want to provide your tenants with an opportunity to spend time outside without wasting it on weekly maintenance—that’s the main goal. With that in mind, having beautiful lawns only requires some mowing. When potential tenants view the property, they’ll be able to picture their kids playing outside and spending quality time with their family. Also, having a few weather-resistant native plants that come back year after year will definitely pay off. Types like peonies, boxwoods, and hydrangeas require very little care and can brighten the entire exterior with their presence.
Repaint It
With only one can of paint, you can transform your exterior almost completely. As a landlord, keeping your façade fresh should be one of your biggest priorities, because it’s one of the first things your potential tenants see when they step out to the curb. A fresh coat of paint will be more than appealing to people who are looking for a home to live in long-term and that’s exactly what you want—serious tenants. For the best results, stick with neutrals. They might not be super revolutionary, but they have a wide appeal and they usually look modern and clean. Plus, it will be easier for your tenants to add their personal touch to a neutral base.
Add Some High Class with Natural Stone
If you want not only to attract tenants but to attract rich tenants, you must invest in something eye-catching that will make your rental property stand out. For instance, natural materials like stone are very popular today due to their attractive look, durability and eco-friendly properties. So, if you have an appropriate place, include some rock into your home exterior. All quality aggregates will look very stylish on your property no matter if incorporated into your façade, your landscaping or your paths. Since this detail will set your property apart from your competition, it will stick in their minds and make them come back.
Fix Doors and Windows
This is a very important part of every property and it shouldn’t be taken lightly. The condition of your doors and windows can not only put off your tenants visually but also financially. Old fixtures will waste more energy and cost the tenants more money on utility bills. So, besides looking attractive from both exterior and interior vantage points, your windows and doors must be sealed and energy-efficient.
Add a Porch or Patio
If your rental property has a beautiful scenic view, make sure to use that to your advantage and create an outdoor patio where your tenants can relax, spend time with family and entertain. Remember that the key to a good patio or porch is comfort and your tenants will appreciate your efforts. So, make sure you provide potential renters with a basic seating area with a porch swing and built-in benches. While outdoor furniture is completely optional for a property owner, it will attract tenants who don’t have their own furniture. However, the thing you must provide is good lighting. This will not only boost comfort and aesthetic appeal but also improve the safety of your entire property. In order to attract more eco-friendly people, use energy-efficient LEDs or try to power your lighting using clean solar energy. Adding a built-in grill is also a good investment since it will last for years and add instant value to your space.
Driveway
Having accessible and safe parking is very important for most serious renters, so ensure your garage is protected and your driveway is in good condition. Lining the driveway with solar lights will add to safety and guide the eye towards your beautiful property.
Cozy Details
Don’t think you have to go big in order to impress your tenants. Some smaller details also affect the way your renters perceive your property. For instance, ensure you have an attractive mailbox with stylish landscaping around it. If you have sturdy, big trees in your backyard, add a hammock or a tire swing. This will give your tenants an opportunity to spend lazy summer afternoons lounging in the shade and enjoying life.
Combine all of these tips into one property and you can expect a lot of quality, long-term tenants to be interested in what you have to offer.
This article has been contributed by Derek Lotts.