Weekend Improvements to Increase the Value of your Rental Property

As a landlord, you want to be able to charge the maximum amount of rent possible for your property. As such, many landlords seek ways to improve their properties so they can increase their returns. Naturally, making big improvements – such as renovating a kitchen or bathroom – will allow you to charge more money. But did you know that there are many smaller improvements that can be made to enhance the overall appearance and condition of your property? These quick fixes may help you get more desirable tenants and charge higher rents.

This week, we’re going to give you a list of improvements that can be completed in just one weekend. Why not pick one today and get started this coming weekend?

Paint the walls

All of your prospective tenants have one thing in common – they value cleanliness in their rental property (and if they don’t, then you probably don’t want them as tenants). Dirty walls with chipped paint can make your entire property look dingy and old. If you don’t have the time or money for anything else, then make painting the walls your project for the weekend. Pick a light neutral shade for the walls. Don’t forget to paint the ceilings, trim and baseboards, too!

Add curtains

Curtains can brighten up a room and show off those freshly painted walls. This doesn’t have to be an expensive project – you may be able to find great curtains in your local opp shop. Curtains create a more private environment and will help keep your tenants cosy in the winter. And by installing curtains, you’ll be saving your tenants the expense of having to buy their own, which will make your property more desirable.

Update old light fixtures

This is a great weekend project and it can be fun too! Take a look at the fixtures in your property. Are they old, dingy, boring, cheap or non-existent? Imagine how a bright or funky light fixture could transform the room. If you’ve got the budget, head down to your favourite home design store and pick out some gorgeous light fixtures. For smaller budgets, consider opp shops, garage sales and TradeMe. You should be able to find something in your price range – anything is better than a bare bulb on the ceiling! Almost anyone can change out a light fixture, so there may be no need to call an electrician for this weekend project.

Install fly Screens

Fly screens are great for so many reasons. Keeping the flies out means your walls will be free of those ugly stains on your walls and ceilings – and your paint job will last longer. Your tenants will be more comfortable, which you should be sure to highlight when showing prospective tenants around the property. Another benefit of fly screens is that your tenants will be able to leave their windows open, allowing for better airflow and circulation through the property, thereby avoiding condensation build up and mould growth. There is a wide range of fly screens available in Christchurch – from customised, permanent screens to screens that can be attached and removed via magnetic fixtures.

Improve your curb appeal

First impressions matter! It’s important that your property has a desirable appearance on the outside. Think about prospective tenants as they approach the property. Is the grass overgrown and full of weeds? Are there bare patches of dirt where there could be flowers? Grab your garden tools – trim back the hedges, edge the walkways, and plant some bright flowers in those empty spots. With some simple yard work and landscaping, the curb appeal of your property can be improved drastically in one short weekend.

Ready to give one of these ideas a try this weekend? We’d love to hear about your plans below. And if we’ve missed any rental property improvement tips, please let us know!