Everyone has an opinion about how a home looks from the outside. Whether you’re driving through a random neighborhood or pulling up for a dinner party, you’re going to notice how the outside of the home looks. You’re going to form a perception about what you’ll find inside that home.
That’s the power of curb appeal. It can get a person excited about a home, or it can completely repel them.
When you’re renting out a Redondo Beach property, and you want to be successful in finding a good tenant, the curb appeal is especially important.
Let’s talk about the impact of that curb appeal on your Redondo Beach rental property and why it deserves so much attention.
Why Curb Appeal Matters So Much
We’re going to give you some tips on how to make your curb appeal count, but first, let’s explore why focusing on curb appeal is vital for real estate investors.
- First Impressions Matter
The saying “You never get a second chance to make a first impression” is probably a little trite and maybe even overused, but actually, it rings especially true in real estate. When prospective tenants approach your rental property, their first impression is formed before they even step inside. A well-maintained and visually appealing exterior can set the tone for their entire experience. It can make potential renters more eager to explore further and ultimately increase your chances of securing quality tenants. This is important even in your listings. You should include photos of your front door and any outside space so tenants can get an idea of how things look on the outside as well as the inside.
- Increased Tenant Interest
Properties with strong curb appeal are more likely to attract a wider pool of potential tenants. Highly qualified tenants are always going to gravitate towards rental homes that are pretty and welcoming. In a competitive rental market, having a property that stands out from the rest can be a significant advantage. An inviting exterior can pique the interest of individuals who are driving or walking by, prompting them to inquire about available units. This increased interest can lead to higher demand, allowing you to select the best tenants from a larger applicant pool.
- Higher Rental Rates
A property with excellent curb appeal not only attracts more tenants but can also justify higher rental rates. When tenants perceive a property as well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing, they are often willing to pay a premium for the privilege of living there. This can translate into higher monthly rental income and improved cash flow, ultimately boosting your property’s profitability and overall return on investment.
- Reduced Vacancy Periods
Vacancies can be a significant drain on your rental property’s profitability. Properties with strong curb appeal tend to experience shorter vacancy periods as they attract tenants more quickly. A visually appealing exterior can create a sense of urgency among potential renters, encouraging them to act promptly. Reduced vacancy periods mean more consistent rental income and fewer financial setbacks. Not only do you have less vacancy, but there’s likely to be less turnover, too. Your tenants will want to stay in place when they’re proud of how their home looks.
- Enhanced Property Value
Investing in curb appeal not only benefits your rental property’s current performance but also contributes to its long-term value. A property that consistently maintains its exterior attractiveness is likely to appreciate over time. Should you decide to sell the property in the future, a well-preserved and appealing exterior can command a higher selling price and attract more buyers.
These are some of the most powerful impacts that quality curb appeal can have on your investment experience, especially in a competitive rental market like Redondo Beach.
How to Improve the Curb Appeal of Your Redondo Beach Rental
Improving your rental property’s curb appeal doesn’t have to be an expensive or time-consuming process. Here are some simple yet effective strategies to consider:
- Start by Power Washing Your Property
Give your Redondo Beach rental property a good scrub. As you work towards creating curb appeal that’s clean and attractive, one good way to make it stand out in the neighborhood and on the market is to give it a complete power wash. Start by cleaning up around the building; dust away any dirt, debris, sticks, branches, leaves, and insects that have gathered around your home. Then, turn the hose on your home and brighten up the whole property.
Power wash the entire house (or the building, if you’re renting out multifamily units) as well as the driveway, sidewalk, and any driveways, carports, or walking paths. Power wash the patios if you have them, as well as the deck or the balconies. It’s not expensive, and you may be surprised at just how much filth can gather over the years. If you don’t have your own power washer, they’re easy and cheap enough to rent. Or, you can hire someone to do it for you, and that won’t even require a huge budget.
Current and prospective residents will appreciate the brighter, lighter feel when they come to see the home. Power washing and cleaning your property’s exterior are extra steps that tenants will appreciate. It will be much easier to love your property.
- Focus on Lawns and Landscaping
It’s not like there’s snow and ice to deal with in Redondo Beach. There’s not even a whole lot of rain. Think about both climate and upkeep when you’re planning your landscaping. You want to keep it simple. Tenants will be attracted to pretty outdoor spaces, but they don’t want to spend their weekends weeding and maintaining complex rose gardens. Whether you have a little outdoor space or a lot, make a plan to keep the landscaping simple, attractive, and well-maintained.
As long as your landscaping is neat, trimmed, and healthy, it doesn’t require a huge investment. Your grass should be kept short if you have any, and some kind of irrigation system should be in place to water it so the space stays healthy and green.
Cost-effective landscaping will include native flowers and plants. You don’t have to spend a lot when you want to upgrade your landscaping with decorative plants. There are a lot of options in Idaho. Look for plants that are naturally found in and around our region. Look for different sizes, colors, and shapes, and position them strategically around the perimeter of your property.
- Paint Quality on Your Rental Home
Fresh paint may be needed on your property’s exterior. You’ll get a good idea about whether this is true after you’ve done your power wash. Painting the exterior could be a large undertaking, depending on your property size and structure, but it’s also a big part of keeping your property attractive to good tenants. If the paint is looking chipped, faded, or worn, it’s worth the investment. Updated paint is a good idea every five or 10 years because it increases the durability and lifespan of that home.
When the entire property doesn’t need to be repainted, consider repainting the trim or the front door. This can add a fresh, modern look without investing in a full paint job. You can also invest in new hardware, which looks good on even an aging home. Experiment with a new door handle. Throw down a fresh welcome mat. Install a brighter light bulb.
- Safe and Secure Curb Appeal
Curb appeal is mostly about aesthetics, but there’s always a place for safety and security. Always make improvements that are needed. You don’t want to see rotting wood, nails sticking out of the decks and patios, or shingles falling off the roof. There shouldn’t be any trip and fall hazards on walkways, driveways, or front steps, either.
Whether you’re renting out a single-family home, a duplex, or a condo, you need an exterior that’s not only attractive but safe. If things are looking run-down or there’s not enough lighting, think about some ways to approach these improvements right away. This is important aesthetically and also functionally. Maybe you need an entirely new entrance.
Have a Little Fun with Curb Appeal
This should be one of the easiest and even the most interesting places to improve your property or prepare it for the rental market. Have fun with your curb appeal. Don’t be afraid to include some decorative elements in the front of your property. There’s no need to go overboard, but a simple wreath or a welcome sign on the door can go a long way in helping tenants feel welcome and comfortable. Consider a pot of fresh flowers and make sure the mailboxes are in good shape, especially if they’re visible at or near the entry.
These are some of our general guidelines around curb appeal, but the really meaningful recommendations will be personalized to your unique property. Let’s have a look at what you’re working with, and we can help you make your property stand out in the Redondo Beach rental market. Please contact us at Real Property Management Choice.
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