Upgrades That Tenants Love

By E-Renter Tenant Screening
Posted on October 17, 2012 under Housing Trends, Landlord Tips | Be the First to Comment

What do tenants want? What is the competition offering? These are two questions that every landlord should be able to answer. As in any business, it’s imperative to know what your customers’ needs are, what they prefer, and why they’re buying from the competition. In the landlord business, providing tenants with the amenities and features that the want, can keep them from going to the competition.

If you want quality tenants who stick around and renew their leases, then consider the following upgrades, which most tenants love:

Washers and dryers: Stackable units are made for small spaces. For not a ton of money, you could add a washer and dryer to a utility closet. Or install full-size appliances on a back porch or basement of a single-family unit or duplex. Tenants love not having to go to the Laundromat.

Wood floors: Most landlords cringe at the thought of installing easily-scratched wood floors, but there are new materials that look just as good and are super tough. Laminate flooring is perfect for rentals, is very dependable and easy to maintain.

Fenced yards: Your pet-loving tenants will especially appreciate a fenced-in yard. So will those with kids they’d like to keep an eye on. And everyone likes the privacy factor.

Storage: Most tenants will never complain about too much storage. Whether it’s bigger closets, built-in bookcases, shelves in the kitchen and bathrooms or an outdoor shed, you can’t go wrong adding a little extra storage.

Updated fixtures: Old, outdated lighting fixtures can be depressing. It doesn’t take much time or money to install new ceiling light fixtures, as well as new lighting in the kitchen and bathroom. While you’re at it, put in a fluorescent under-cabinet kitchen light to brighten the room.

Patios: Most everyone loves to be outside when the weather permits. Even a small concrete pad or flagstone patio can pay for itself when prospective tenants see it.

It’s always a good idea to shop around and see what comparable rental units have to offer, as well as what they are renting for. If you’re having trouble attracting or keeping good tenants, consider upgrading your units to give them what they want!