Key Takeaways

• Improving curb appeal helps rental units make a stronger first impression on prospective tenants before they even step inside.
• Simple updates like clean walkways, better lighting, and updated unit numbers can make a property look more attractive without major expense.
• A well-maintained exterior can increase tenant interest, improve perceived property value, and help rental properties lease more quickly.

When it comes to rental real estate, curb appeal is important. At B&R Property Management, we know that before prospective tenants have even stepped in the front door, they have often already formed an opinion of an apartment based on what they see from the street. 

These conditions may immediately lead to concerns about how well the remainder of the property is maintained. Conversely, a well-kept, attractive, and inviting exterior often indicates professionalism, care, and value.

The good news is that improving curb appeal does not always have to be achieved through new, expensive landscaping or the installation of new features. In many cases, simple changes and continuing maintenance can greatly improve the appearance of a property without significant expense.

This article outlines ways that you can enhance the curb appeal of your rental properties while maximizing the long-term value and profitability of their rental properties.

Why Curb Appeal is Important

Many landlords place an excessive amount of emphasis on upgrading the interiors of their rental units, and don’t give adequate consideration to the exterior presentation of the whole property. Nonetheless, prospective tenants typically evaluate a residence shortly after they arrive on the property. 

Oftentimes, tenants determine if they are interested in renting the unit even before they step inside. The look of a building provides much of the information that people use to develop their opinions about the property quality, landlord professionalism, safety, neighborhood fit and maintenance standards. 

Curb appeal can lead to quicker leasing timeframes, higher inquiry rates, higher perceived rental rates, better tenant impressions of the property, and a positive image of the neighborhood in which the property is located. The way that a property is presented can lead to a particular way that people perceive that property. Likewise, this perception can be the driving force behind rental decisions.

Tips To Boost Your Rental Property’s Curb Appeal

The following tips can help landlords make practical, cost-effective improvements that strengthen the appearance, safety, and overall appeal of their rental properties.

Care For the Lawn and Landscaping

Landscaping is one of the most visible parts of a property’s curb appeal. Simple improvements to a property’s exterior can significantly enhance its appearance. Exterior improvements can often make a great impact on the overall look of a property. 

The most important landscaping priorities are lawn care on a regular basis, trimming shrubs regularly, and removal of dead plants.

Update Exterior Paint

The overall condition of the exterior paint will impact first impressions. If there is peeling, flaking, fading, or chipping on the exterior of the building, it will give the impression that the building has not been well-maintained.

Some of the exterior surfaces that may need to be painted are the front door and siding, using a neutral color that can appeal to a large range of tenants. An exterior paint update can dramatically change the look of a property.

Update the Front Door

If the front door is old and/or damaged, the property loses appeal. If your front door is old and/or not in good condition, it could harm your overall curb appeal. You can enhance the appearance and safety of your front door by changing out old hardware, installing a more modern handle set or improving your front porch lighting. 

A well-maintained and attractive doorway will often make a strong emotional impact on potential tenants. Many times, tenants visualize their daily life while touring a rental property. The entrance sets the expectation for the rest of the building. Small upgrades can make a big difference.

Improve Your Exterior Lighting

Good exterior lighting is important for both aesthetic reasons and for safety. If the exterior of your property is poorly lit, it will feel less inviting to the potential tenant and may create a feeling of insecurity. 

Some examples of ways to upgrade your outdoor lighting are walkway lighting, motion sensor lighting, and parking area lighting. Additionally, improved lighting will create higher-quality photographs for online listings and will affect how the property is perceived.

Clean the Walkways and Driveways

The surfaces surrounding your home may collect dirt, moss, oil stains, leaves, and debris over a period of time. Pressure cleaning sidewalks and walkways typically has an immediate visual impact. 

Clean walkways communicate an attitude of care and maintenance. Walkways with cracks are also valid candidates for attention. Maintaining clear, even walkways supports accessible design by helping residents, guests, and prospective tenants move safely and comfortably throughout the apartment property. Repairing minor damage can improve the safety and visual aesthetic of the walkway. Your apartment building’s entrance is your tenant’s first impression.

Upgrade Building Numbers 

Unit numbers that are old or broken give an out-of-date appearance. For many landlords, it is an easy and cost-effective way to improve the overall aesthetics of the building by installing modern replacements. 

Having current, clean, and easily identifiable address numbers greatly enhances the convenience of the property for visitors, delivery people, and emergency services. In addition to enhancing the curb appeal, the small updates add polish to the overall property.

Bottom Line

Improving an apartment building’s curb appeal includes many more elements than just aesthetics. The exterior of the property sets the tone for the tenant’s perception of the property, has a strong influence on the property’s value, and can help rental units lease more quickly. 

Working with a professional property management company can make it easier to maintain these exterior details and protect the long-term value of your investment.