Landlords often focus on keeping their rental properties clean and upgrading interiors, but they may overlook the importance of curb appeal. While it might seem superficial, a well-maintained exterior can make a significant difference in attracting potential tenants. In fact, creating an inviting curb appeal can capture the attention of passersby and reduce vacancy times.
This article will provide you with practical tips to enhance your property’s curb appeal and increase interest from prospective tenants.
What Is Curb Appeal?
Curb appeal is the measure of the visual attractiveness of your property exteriors. It can refer to the architecture, landscaping, outdoor decor, and even the color palette you use in painting your rental space.
Why Is Curb Appeal Important?
An excellent curb appeal makes it easy to attract more prospective renters and you can showcase it through property photos or videos on property listings. If you capture the interest of your target market, you can find yourself at the receiving end of inquiries and property showing requests.
The more renters to choose from, the better the tenant selection, and the quicker you can fill a vacant unit. In addition, a fantastic curb appeal can lead to a better chance to increase your rental fee but always check how other rental units are priced to avoid losing renters to competitors. You must also check the local regulations since some areas may cap rental price increases.
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What Is the Return on Investment for Curb Appeal?
When you have empty rental spaces, it can reduce your operating income but with a superior curb appeal, you can find more engagement from a lot of prospective renters. You can choose the best type of renters if you have more tenant candidates lining up.
So what is the investment range when investing in curb appeal? It does not have to cost you a lot. The best strategies are affordable and can be done once a year or once every two years, such as painting the unit.
If you compare it to the maintenance fees you have to spend on an empty rental, you can see that spending on curb appeal improvements can be a wise decision. Curb appeal investments can keep vacancies at bay and lead to increased opportunities for boosting your property exposure.
How to Upgrade Your Rental’s Curb Appeal
You don’t necessarily have to spend a lot for curb appeal improvements. You can just invest in small updates and take advantage of long-term benefits that lead to happy tenants willing to renew their leases for the long term.
The following tips can elevate your rental space above others and make it easy to promote to your audience on different platforms:
1. Hire a Professional Painter
An affordable way to enhance your curb appeal is simply to layer new paint over your rental unit. Paint can peel or grow dull over the years. This is a great way to refresh the appearance of your unit without spending a lot. Bubbling and peeling paint are not a pretty sight so it is best to arrange a paint upgrade every few years to keep your rental competitive.
2. Showcase Pristine Landscaping
There's no denying it, nothing enhances the appeal of a property like a freshly mowed lawn and healthy, well-maintained landscaping. Schedule regular lawn mowing and weed removal to maintain a neat and inviting outdoor space. This not only boosts the property's curb appeal but also sets the standard for the level of care and maintenance expected from tenants.
3. Aim for Spotless Windows
Keeping up with a pristine property appearance requires tidy windows, which also enhances your unit’s curb appeal. If you have a multi-family property, there may be several windows to clean but this is a must. You can also engage the services of cleaning specialists for more professional results.
If the number of windows is too many, then it helps to concentrate your effort on the front part of the rental where it is likely to receive the most attention. It can create an impression when you are conducting a property tour to potential residents.
4. Elevate Your Lighting
Not only does lighting improve your curb appeal, but it also fortifies security. Make sure to have a well-lit rental property to bring warmth to residents. It can make a huge difference, especially at night time. Consider installing solar lights for more utility bill savings. It also reduces areas where potential intruders can hide.
5. Keep up With Roof and Gutter Maintenance
When your roof appears chaotic due to clutter, it can reduce the curb appeal of your rental space. Take care to get rid of unnecessary items. Deal with leaks immediately as water damage can lead to exorbitant costs and can make your interiors rundown.
Inspect and clean your gutters regularly, especially after a windy period or storm. A lot of debris and leaves can pile up, which can affect your drainage system and redirect the water flow.
Bottom Line
Curb appeal plays a vital role in attracting old and new renters. You should invest in upgrading your curb appeal to limit property vacancies and get your return on investment quickly. Curb appeal improvements do not have to equate to surface enhancements, you can also deliver additional security to further encourage tenants to choose to rent in your unit over others.
If you are looking for a trusted property manager to increase your curb appeal and find high-quality residents, contact Castle Management today!
