Top Remodel Projects Renters Wish Their Property Managers Would Invest In…

Remodel-CollageRenting a house or apartment carries many benefits for renters, including saving money and offering flexibility. However, home improvement restrictions on rented properties mean that many renters often feel frustrated that they cannot update their homes in the ways they need or want. At Home Improvement Leads, we believe that property managers have the ability to alleviate some of the potential home improvement stressors often felt by renters. We’ve compiled a list of some of the top remodel projects that renters wish their property managers would invest in to help you understand your renters and improve both your and their rental experience.

New windows

If you are considering any large scale home renovations before next renting your property, new and improved windows should be at the top of your list. Older properties in particular will benefit from an upgrade to double or triple paned windows, which increase temperature regulation and drastically improve the soundproofing inside the building. While a well-regulated home means increased energy efficiency and lower energy bills, a soundproofed home is even more important to many renters–especially if your property is in an urban area.

Energy efficiency products

As the national energy focus shifts towards renewable sources rather than ozone depleting fossil fuels, renters will become more aware of their own carbon footprints and want to do something to minimize their impact on the earth. If your budget allows, making use of renewable energy sources such as solar panels or water heaters will stand you in good environmental stead and encourage renters to choose your property over others. If this change is too significant, other pieces of smart home technology such as energy meters, smart thermostats, and energy efficient lighting systems all work towards the same energy-saving end and will satisfy many of your renters’ eco-friendly needs.

Increased storage

One of the most bemoaned aspects of rental living is the lack of storage space in small properties. While you cannot increase the size of your property, there are several ways to create storage space where it didn’t exist before, as well as ways to make the most of the storage areas you already have. Hallways, bathrooms, and kitchens are particularly reliant on storage, so put your energy into these spaces by installing floating shelves throughout the home, space saving cupboards in narrow hallways, and modular storage options in closets and kitchen areas. Your renters will thank you a thousand times over for your (fairly minimal) efforts here.

Kitchen upgrades

For most people (homeowners and renters alike), the kitchen is considered the heart of the home. If you can only focus on one or two areas during your next remodeling spree, make the kitchen a priority whenever possible. Small but impactful projects such as new taps, faucets, cupboard and drawer handles, light fixtures, backsplashes, and even oven hoods will change the look of your kitchen and make your renters want to spend time in this family oriented space. Finally, don’t forget a fresh coat of paint and storage, as mentioned above.

Bathroom upgrades

Next to the kitchen, a clean and updated bathroom is at the top of most renters’ project wishlists. New tiles, flooring, sinks, showers, and toilets will transform a once dull bathroom and increase your chances of sealing the deal with renters. Fixtures and fittings such as faucets, taps, and shower heads can all do with an occasional upgrade as well. Finish your bathroom remodel with a bright white mildew-resistant paint to protect this humid space from the buildup of mold and grime.

Landscaping and entryway

If your property has a front-of-house outdoor area or porch, you can easily increase its curb appeal with some attractive, low-maintenance landscaping and a lick of paint on the exterior. Renters will feel safer and more secluded with shrubbery, a few trees, or even a flower bed as a barrier between their home and the outside world. Some rental properties have no accessible outdoor areas, so landscaping won’t be a solvable issue for you as a property manager in these cases. Instead, a quick repainting job and a shiny new number plate for the door will be all you need to make your renters’ entryway fresh and new.

Fresh walls/ceilings

Whether or not you have time and budget for larger home improvements, you should never turn over a rented property without giving the entire home a fresh coat of paint. Neutral hues such as white, magnolia, and subtle brown will suit all tastes and can easily be topped up when marks appear. Choose hard-wearing, mark resistant brands that will stand the test of time and keep your property looking fresh for more than the first six months. Last but not least, don’t forget to paint your property’s ceilings (if applicable). Your efforts will instantly brighten up the rooms in your property and leave renters satisfied with the results.

Source: propertymanagementinsider.com