It can be hard for some rental property owners to design rental units in a way that is both cost-effective and also attractive to perspective tenants. For this reason and others, many rental property owners choose to hire a property manager. Experienced property managers will know how to create a nicely designed unit that will appeal to potential renters without breaking the bank.

Typically there are a few choices that a property manager can make to maximize the return on money spent designing a space. Here are four popular design choices to consider.

CURB APPEAL

The first thing that any potential tenant sees when they visit a property is the exterior. Not only does the exterior create the first impression, it is also the first sign a renter will have of what might be waiting inside. Most tenants don’t expect immaculate lawns or beautiful landscaping but they will look for signs that the property is well cared for.

Professional property managers understand the importance of removing dirt or debris along with weeds or dead plants before a property should be shown. Chipped paint and any property damage should also be repaired. Lighting should be sufficient to make the outside look safe and attractive at night. Homey touches like potted plants and a repainted front door are also good ways to ensure a positive first impression for perspective tenants

KITCHEN UPGRADES

For many tenants, the kitchen is the most important space in the home and some renters will decide whether or not they want to live in a space based on the kitchen alone. A property manager does not need to install top-of-the-line appliances to make a kitchen stand out though. Small changes can have a significant impact on tenants without costing an arm and a leg.

Creative storage solutions like pot racks or pantries with smart shelving are always a good idea. An extremely clean kitchen with fresh paint is also a great way to inspire tenants. Even swapping cabinet hardware to something more updated can make a huge difference in the way people respond to a property.

WORKING APPLIANCES

This may seem like it goes without saying but appliances are not just about design. Utility is also very important to potential renters. Professional property managers like Martin Feinberg understand the importance of making sure that all appliances in the unit are in working order. Sometimes this will mean having older appliances replaced instead of continuing to try to repair. Not only will a tenant quickly grow tired of constantly struggling with an appliance but replacing rather than continuously repairing can also save the property owner money in the long run. Also, newer models often use less energy and are more environmentally friendly, which can also appeal to tenants.

NEUTRAL TONES

Paint is a property manager’s most cost-effective way to improve the look of any rental property. Rental properties should be painted in neutral colors so that any tenants will be able to easily envision themselves living in the unit. Off-white and gray are currently popular choices but a good beige can also serve the same purpose.

The same is true for the rest of the finishes in any rental unit. Simple timeless patterns, shades, and materials will appeal to more renters and will look fresh for longer. While following the fads can appeal to some tenants it can also make a property look dated very quickly. It’s ok to be trendy but experienced property managers understand the importance of staying as neutral as possible.

RENTAL-READY

With a little work and some knowledge property managers can help ensure the rentals they manage appeal to a wide variety of people by looking fresh and clean. This will help shorten the amount of time a unit is on the market and also help to keep tenants in the unit longer, increasing the bottom line for both property manager and rental property owner alike.