It’s easy to get caught up in the bells and whistles of your rental property: the fancy appliances, the swanky amenities, the high-tech thermostats. But what about the first thing potential renters see? The curb appeal is a very powerful marketing tool. A well-maintained, visually appealing property attracts more renters and helps fill vacancies faster.
This guide will walk you through what curb appeal really means, why it matters, and 10 ways to boost your property’s exterior charm. Plus, we’ll talk about how a property manager fits into the mix because a great property manager knows curb appeal is more than just a fresh coat of paint.
What Is Curb Appeal, Anyway?
Curb appeal is the first impression your property makes before a prospective tenant even steps inside. It’s the landscaping, the cleanliness, the condition of the paint, and even the lighting. A property with great curb appeal looks inviting, well-maintained, and, most importantly, like a place someone would actually want to live.
Why Does Curb Appeal Matter?
Think of curb appeal as the profile picture of your rental listing. If the exterior looks unkempt or outdated, renters will assume the inside isn’t much better. A well-kept exterior boosts interest increases perceived value, and can even justify a higher rent. Plus, an attractive property can mean shorter vacancy periods and fewer marketing headaches.
Property managers understand this well. At Wurth PM, we know that the right curb appeal strategy not only brings in more tenants but also makes life easier when it comes to property upkeep and tenant satisfaction.
What’s the ROI on Curb Appeal?
Vacancies are expensive. Every week a unit sits empty is money lost. Investing in curb appeal ensures more eyes on your property, which means quicker tenant turnaround. The best part? Many curb appeal improvements don’t cost a fortune. Small, thoughtful upgrades can have a huge impact without draining your maintenance budget.
Let’s break down 10 ways you can instantly boost your property’s curb appeal.
1. A New Paint Job
If your building’s paint has chipped or faded, it needs a touch-up. You don’t have to get all colorful, just ensure the property looks neat. A minor touch-up can make the entire property look brand new and more appealing to occupy.
2. Improve Your Entry System
It’s not just a convenience feature, it makes the property look high-tech and secure. Removing an old, rusty call box and installing a video intercom is a clear signal that your property is up-to-date and secure. It also gets extra credit if it can be integrated with smartphones.
3. Proper Landscaping
Cut lawns, trimmed hedges, and weed-free paths and steps are a plus. If you have extra funds, you might want to include some low-maintenance greenery. Property managers are often in charge of scheduling landscaping services so that no matter what, everything looks its best, and tenants or owners don’t have to do much to maintain it.
4. Some Colors with Plants
Flowers are not something you have to see only in suburban areas. Just some potted plants, hanging baskets, or flowerbeds right at the entrance can make a huge difference. Experts recommend using low-maintenance plants like hydrangeas or lavender, which need little care.
5. Light It Up
Good lighting is both practical and beautiful. Well-lit paths, stylish wall lights at the entrance, and solar-powered garden lights create safe and beautiful surroundings and make evening walks more pleasant and secure.
6. Clean Windows
Here comes the dirty windows problem. Avoiding that is relatively easy. It is essential to clean windows, especially those at the main entrance of the building. Sometimes, cleaning the lobby and entryway windows is possible, but if you can’t afford to hire a window cleaner, at least ensure they are clean.
7. Window Box Planters
To achieve even more charm, you can install window box planters. They are low maintenance, add character to the building, and make even the most boring buildings look more inviting.
8. Repair Pavement and Walkways
It doesn’t help to have a cracked sidewalk and pothole-filled parking lot if you are trying to create a high-quality living environment. Fixing and sealing pavement every few years is important to keep your property looking its best and avoid expensive future repairs.
9. Design an Outdoor Community Area
It opens up for a few benches, a picnic table, or even a gazebo to create a space for people to gather outside in the community. Tenants appreciate having a place to sit outside without leaving the unit, giving your property a unique identity in the rental market.
10. The Roof and Gutters
A property with dilapidated gutters or a roof without shingles does not inspire confidence. Maintaining the roof and gutters keeps your building looking neat and tidy and also helps to prevent costly water damage.
Final Thoughts
A rental property that looks good on the outside will attract more attention, have higher rental rates, and have fewer vacant units.
A good property manager is also involved in maintaining curb appeal. At Wurth Property Management, we ensure that your property always looks its best by taking care of the landscaping and other maintenance issues. Some small changes can greatly improve the appearance of your rental property, the return on your investment, and the living environment for your tenants. Call us today to discuss it more!
