When showing your rental property to potential tenants, good first impressions are vital. While keeping the interior of a rental is essential, the exterior is just as important. Renters are looking for an all-around livable environment that allows them to experience their own oasis, especially after a long day. Investing in hardscaping — the permanent elements in landscaping — will help you attract more renters.
Consider Low Maintenance Additions
Hardscaping can include a variety of attractive features including a concrete walkway, stone fountains, or even a wooden gazebo. However, keep in mind that you might want to select features that are low maintenance, which can save time and money. For instance, if you add a bench with flowerpots located on each side, you can easily swap in new flowers once they begin to wither or die. On the other hand, a koi fish pond may be worth the extra time and money — it’s truly up for you to decide. You can do your research and determine what hardscaping elements are attractive to renters that also double as another selling point for the property.
1. Create an Entertainment Space with Decks and Patios
Most renters love having a place of their own to host loved ones on the weekends. If your rental property has a small yard, consider adding a deck or patio to transform the area into a usable space. There are a variety of attractive options you can install. Brick patios can add an elegant natural touch while concrete patios are low maintenance and versatile. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, you can also install a patio made of pavers, which tends to be less expensive and still look great. Decks and patios last for years, so you’ll get a great return on your investment.
2. Retaining Walls
Retaining walls are an excellent multi-purpose hardscaping element. Retaining walls prevent erosion and can help prevent sinkholes or fertilizers/nutrients for plants from washing away. Retaining walls also increase space and prevent flooding, while drastically improving the aesthetic of the rental and increasing property value. These walls can be made of stone, brick, wood, or concrete. Simply add some softscape materials like flowers or bushes for an instant makeover that will charm potential renters.
3. Add a Few Softscape Elements
Adding softscape elements like trees, grass, flowers, and mulch will soften the hardscape features. A space that only consists of hardscaping can look displeasing to the eye. Note that too many plants can create a cluttered, unkempt appearance. Try to aim for a good balance of both types of landscaping for best results. Also, ensure there is enough drainage space between the softscape and hardscape elements to prevent erosion so your design of roses shaped in a heart near your patio isn’t washed away when it rains.
4. Install Water Features
Installing a water feature like a fountain can elevate the exterior of your rental property into a tranquil environment. It will also attract renters because it will make the property stand out in their minds. Fountains tend to be the easiest and least expensive water feature, but a small pond is a great choice as well. Regardless of what you select, make sure the feature is well maintained and free of algae.
5. Add a Swimming Pool
A swimming pool is a great choice, especially if the rental property is in a warmer climate. However, maintaining a pool is a bit more complicated than it seems for a number of reasons, including frequent cleaning. Adding a pool is a great example of a luxury upgrade that renters are willing to pay more for. Evaluate the costs, risks, and benefits before diving into such a commitment.
6. Mirror, Mirror
Similar to a bedroom or living room, adding a few rustic-chic mirrors can give the illusion of a larger space. Place a few mirrors near a patio or a fence for a charming yet inexpensive look.
7. Create Shade
Similar to a swimming pool, shade is a powerful commodity, especially in warmer states. You can throw in some shade by adding a gazebo, umbrellas, or a strategically planted tree. Although shade is a simple element, adding a quaint gazebo or a towering tree can help make your property stand out to renters.
It doesn’t take much to increase your curb appeal, but it will make all the difference when attracting renters. Hardscaping can help your tenants feel at home, which can lead to lease renewals, great reviews, and more. Once you've upgraded your rental, don't be scared to show it off! When you list your property with Apartments.com, it will be shown on all twelve of our network sites with exposure to millions of monthly visitors. Upload pictures and show off your rental's new unique features! Hopefully, these tips can help you transform your rental property into an oasis for your tenants.
