Do you know what some of the best upgrades for your Washington, D.C. rental home should be? What upgrades will bring in a higher rent and ultimately a renturn on your investment?
The best upgrades for your rental home don’t have to be expensive, or time consuming. You may even be surprised at what small upgrades will bring in a higher rent. Many landlords think the way to a tenant’s heart is extra insulation, an accent wall or pop of color or new window coverings. These upgrades may be a selling point to some, but most tenants would prefer these simple but valuable upgrades:
1. Clean Carpets
Yes, surprising as it may sound, new carpeting isn’t always a must but, clean…CLEAN carpeting is a no brainer. You’d be surprised how many tenants are thrilled to get nice clean carpet after the many, many rental homes they see.
2. Hardware
You may not be able to update the cabinets in the kitchen and bath, but you’d be amazed at the difference new hardware on your cabinets can be. Also think about upgrading door knobs on bedrooms, closets, and bathroom doors.
3. Curb Appeal
You know what they say about first impressions. The first thing a potential tenant sees when they pull up to your rental home is the front yard, front door, and often the driveway and garage. Trim the trees, mow and edge the lawn, weed the flower beds, and maintain a healthy lawn to avoid weeds and dead spots. Also think about painting the front door or garage door to freshen up the look of the home.
4. Plumbing Fixtures
The kitchen and bath are the two most popular rooms in the home and as most real estate agents will tell you, will make or break the deal. If you can’t upgrade the entire kitchen or bathroom, one of the best upgrades for your rental is the faucets and plumbing fixtures. It will give a more modern look and feel to your home.
What are some great upgrades you’ve done and received rave reviews from your tenants?