You likely have a turnover checklist that ensures your home is clean and welcoming for your next tenant. While you’re at it, consider a renter-friendly upgrade or two. Think beyond painting and investing in new appliances to options that support modern lifestyles. The options below are budget-friendly investments that make your rental property stand out.

1. Smart Home Upgrades

Renters want the convenience of managing their home through a smartphone app. So, consider adding automated features. From remotely managing lighting and heating to the security system and appliances.  

Also consider:

·        Including Wi-Fi with rent

·        Adding a doorbell camera

·        Adding exterior cameras

·        Adding outdoor motion lights

·        Upgrading appliances

·        Cord-free TV placement

What is cord-free TV placement?

You can’t always be sure where in the living room (or other rooms) your tenant will place their TV. If there’s a central area, hire an electrician to add components that allow tenants to connect to cable and plug in their TV without cords hanging down. If they don’t mount their TV in that spot, it’s central so they can add wall art. Maybe do the same in the primary bedroom.

2. Window Treatments

Window treatments are another fast and easy renter-friendly upgrade. You don’t have to supply window treatments throughout, but it’s one less thing for your renters to invest in. Maybe just on the front or street-facing windows for privacy when they move in. Think beyond generic plastic blinds to blackout blinds in a neutral white or wood-stained color. You could also mount curtain rods with or without curtains so all tenants must do is purchase curtains.  

3. New Doors

If your exterior doors are drafty, upgrade them to something more energy-efficient. Maybe even a statement door. Don’t forget the interior doors. With more people working from home and co-living, thicker interior doors are appreciated. At the very least consider upgrading to smart locks on exterior doors and ensuring locks work on all interior doors.

4. Storage Solutions

Look for ways to optimize storage. From replacing the standard bar and shelf in bedroom closets with built-in closets that include hanging bars, shelves, and drawers. Even better if the design can be customized by the tenant after moving in.

Outside of the bedrooms, consider bike racks and large-item storage systems in the garage or basement. You could also reconfigure the kitchen pantry or strategically add built-ins throughout your rental property.

5. Kitchen and Bathroom Upgrades

Painting or re-staining the cabinets in the kitchen and bathroom is an inexpensive renter-friendly upgrade.

Also consider replacing the:

·        Faucet or showerhead

·        Cabinet hardware

·        Toilet

·        Mirror or vanity

·        Sink or sink cabinet

6. Light Fixtures

Investing in modern light fixtures, ceiling fans, dimmer switches, and programmable lighting can improve lighting or create a statement piece that makes a property feel more like home. This includes adding strategically placed LED lights on stairs, under cabinets, and in other areas low lighting can create ambiance or improve safety and function.  

7. Refresh Landscaping

If the previous tenant didn’t keep up with landscaping, invest in a lawn and garden refresh. Even if the yard looks pristine, consider adding new mulch or foliage. Also, consider if it’s time to pressure wash the exterior, walkways, and outdoor living spaces.

Which Renter-Friendly Upgrade is Right For Your Austin Property?

The right upgrades can rent your home faster and increase your profits. One of the many services Stetson Property Management provides is advising on which home improvements are most appealing to tenants. We also have a network of reliable contractors who can get the job done within your budget.

Reach out to learn more!