First impressions can make or break you. That stands true for making your rental property stand out from the competition. The first thing potential renters are going to notice, is curb appeal.
Whether you’re looking to hire a contractor to do the work or complete the work yourself, here are seven tips for giving your property curb appeal that will make your renters proud:
1) Assess the starting point
Walk around the property and take note of where you could improve. You may notice paint needs to be touched up, the grass could be a little greener or maybe that walkway could be cleared off. Make a list of the fixes that need to be completed and also include items on your checklist that could help your property stand out from the rest. If you think you’re overlooking something, it never hurts to get a second opinion or set of eyes to help.
2) Begin with the wear and tear
The more you’re around a property, the more you are inclined to overlook certain wear and tear items, such as chipped paint and pesky weeds. Beginning with these items will help you get your property back in tip-top-shape. Look for items such as a cracked driveway or step. Fixing these items will show your renters that the property is well maintained in addition to limiting the chance of someone tripping.
3) Windows make a statement
The windows provide an opportunity for your property to make a big statement. Properly framing them with paint or shutters will naturally draw the eye to them. Flower boxes will help frame the windows and add some color, making your property more appealing. If the windows are old and weathered, it might be time to replace them. In addition to providing excellent curb appeal, newer windows will help reduce heating and cooling bills, which is a selling point to renters. Don’t forget to clean the windows, inside and out before showing the property.
4) Clean it up
Dirt is never appealing. Making sure the walkways are clean of debris and grass makes the path more welcoming. Also, if there is a deck or a patio, pressure washing it to remove old grime and filth can give your property excellent curb appeal. It may not be enough however to limit the cleaning of the wood. You may also want to consider pressure washing the exterior of the home to remove any dirt, insects and bird droppings.
5) Consider the color choice
Many people focus on the color choices inside the house and neglect that the exterior is a great way to grab attention. Neutral colors with a splash of something bright can help entice renters to your property. Neutral colors typically appeal to more people than bold color choices that reflect someone’s personal style. If you’re having trouble getting renters to notice your property, changing paint colors or adding some outdoor décor items might be just the fix you’ve been looking for. Visit the to learn about how colors influence mood and improve rental marketability.
6) Landscaping adds value
Making sure the trees and bushes are trimmed, the lawn is mowed and watered, and the weeds are plucked – landscaping is a major consideration of overall curb appeal. You may choose to hire a lawn care service or take care of these tasks on your own. If you choose to do the landscaping, it is important to maintain a regular schedule. Let your renters know what the schedule will be, so they can keep pets indoors and make sure toys are picked up and outdoor items such as trampolines are moved, if necessary.
7) Plant flowers to add color
Choosing to plant flowers can add some color and make a property feel much more welcome. Depending on the exterior colors of your property, adding flowers that compliment offers a simple, affordable solution to helping your property stand out from the competition. You can check with a local garden store or your local home supply store to see what plants and flowers thrive in your area and are drought tolerant. Lining walkways with solar lights is also a great way to add a little extra style at an affordable price.
Once your property is looking great, it’s time to share it! Taking photos and video of your property’s curb appeal is a great way to show potential renters how you stand out from the competition. Consider taking them from different perspectives and angles. Once you have interested applicants, it’s time to screen your renters. With a unique Apply Now feature, you can easily invite prospective tenants to complete the background check from your property’s digital advertisement. Visit www.applyconnect.com for an alternative to traditional tenant screening. Complete the process within minutes through our secure online system and trust who you are renting to.
by: Laura Mowry
