Having an appealing outdoor space can be a major selling point for rental properties. Not only can it allow tenants to enjoy the outdoors more, but it also enhances the overall aesthetic and curb appeal. It can be challenging to create an outdoor area that is both functional for tenants and protected as an investment. Read this guide and we will share strategies on how you can do it.
The Importance of Outdoor Spaces for Rental Appeal
According to property managers in Northern Virginia, an inviting outdoor space can attract more potential tenants. Outdoor spaces allow tenants to enjoy fresh air, sunshine, and views of nature. For renters who may lack extensive indoor areas, having access to functional outdoor living space becomes much more important. No matter where your rental property is located, an outdoor space is definitely a plus for your renters.
Upgraded outdoor areas also provide financial benefits for landlords. Properties with better landscapes, patios, and decks have higher perceived value. This allows landlords to increase rents as well as attract and retain ideal long-term tenants. Outdoor improvements also boost curb appeal which shortens vacancies between tenants. Hence, the investment you make to get an outdoor space can be worth it.
Assessing the Current Outdoor Space
Before determining what upgrades to make, thoroughly evaluate what outdoor spaces the rental already provides. This is where you need to consider elements such as landscape features, outdoor furniture, lighting, and fencing. You may also focus on walkways, drainage solutions, and any amenities it already has.
As you assess, look for underutilized areas or areas that need improvement based on safety, functionality, or aesthetic issues. Unmaintained yards and structures can also pose liability risks for landlords. Identifying problem areas or deficiencies now allows you to effectively budget and plan future upgrades.
Additionally, check that any current outdoor features comply with local ordinances in your area, especially those relating to multi-family zoning. Issues like excessive junkyards, fleets of cars, tall grasses, or hazardous structures could potentially lead to citations if ordinances aren’t followed.
Low-Cost, High-Impact Outdoor Upgrades
Once you’ve audited the current outdoor space, you can start implementing a few purposeful upgrades that make a big visual impact without breaking the bank. Focus on changes that boost functionality, safety, and aesthetics for maximum rental appeal. Here are a few of the best low-cost, high-impact outdoor upgrades available for you to consider.
Furniture Options
Adding comfortable, durable outdoor seating gives tenants a dedicated area to relax and entertain. Decorate them with weather-resistant pieces like wicker lounge chairs, bistro-style tables, bench swings, or chaise lounges based on available space. Neutral tones or complementary colors typically have the widest appeal.
If the budget allows, a covered space like a pergola paired with furniture creates an inviting hangout space during all seasons. Fire pits and outdoor kitchens/bars also boost enjoyment and demand slightly higher rents, quickly paying for themselves over time.
Lighting Solutions
Outdoor lighting serves both aesthetic and functional roles in rental spaces. Inspired by cozy apartment ideas, adding soft, string lighting or lanterns can lend an intimate glow to the outdoor space. Attractive lanterns illuminate yard areas and mark entrances to improve visibility and safety at night. You can also install cost-effective LED landscape lighting. Make sure to strategically place them along pathways, hiding wires in beds/borders for a polished ambiance.
For gathering areas with seating, hang attractive string lights overhead to set the stage for outdoor dinners or parties. Uplighting elements like trees or architectural features add style and extend enjoyment hours after dark. Smart, programmable bulbs help reduce energy costs and prevent lights from being accidentally left on, which detracts from curb appeal.
Ground Cover Solutions
Replacing weathered grass with fresh sod boosts vibrancy in outdoor areas at a relatively low expense. For frequently used tenant spaces like play areas for kids, you need to consider more durable artificial turf. The lifespan of a turf averages 15-25 years with proper installation and lacks maintenance of real grass.
Natural mulch beds also give bare areas an upgraded, polished look with weed and moisture control properties. Accent with blooming plants or evergreen shrubs for color. Pay attention to potential fallback from trees coating grass or pavers, which detracts from appeal over time.
Hardscaping with materials like interlocking concrete pavers or stone patios better defines gathering areas in yards. It also reduces muddy patches curbing erosion issues. Look for DIY-friendly paver kits to control costs.
Setting Boundaries and Expectations for Tenants
To preserve your outdoor investments long-term, set clear policies for tenant usage in your lease agreements. Specify if certain areas are shared spaces versus exclusively for an individual unit. Outline expectations for proper furniture use along with what would happen when there is damage.
Cleaning schedules for common areas depend on specifics agreed upon—garbage removal, wiping down furniture, and hosing down outdoor surfaces. Detail whether lawn care and issues like leaf or snow removal are the landlord’s or tenant’s responsibility.
You should also restrict the use of fire pits or grilling areas based on proximity to buildings, local burn bans, and smoke trickling into open windows. To limit fire risks, prohibit portable fire pits tenants may independently bring on-site. In addition, you need to enforce safe disposal of ashes after use.
By consulting local ordinances and your property insurance provider, you can draft compliant rules that welcome tenants’ enjoyment without impacting assets. Always set outdoor areas up for success by supplying tenants with proper instruction, boundaries, and resources.
Final Words
Outdoor spaces are no longer an optional extra when appealing to renters but rather an expectation influencing their housing selection. By making low-cost, high-impact upgrades, landlords can enhance functionality and aesthetics.
Follow the tips in this guide for evaluating current spaces, identifying improvements, and protecting investments long-term through agreements. Ultimately, improving outdoor areas attracts the best tenants faster, retains them longer in units, and allows landlords to reap higher rental incomes over time.
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