Once you’ve established the value of curb appeal, it’s essential to have a plan for spotting deficiencies and fixing them. Create a checklist for evaluating properties on a regular basis, or at least as soon as tenants give notice. You want to be ready to work on any deficiencies to boost curb appeal quickly when necessary.
Consider All The Angles
Impressions are created from the sum of all the parts that go into creating it, so you want to be thorough in your assessment of property’s exterior. It is not enough to look at the building solely from the sidewalk up front or across the street. Make sure you assess the various views as you approach from both the front and back.
You’ll want to look for, and make note to take care of, anything that might detract from the overall appeal. Little things can make a big difference, so it’s in your best interest not to overlook anything that can be cleaned, improved or upgraded.
Picture It
No matter how many times you remind yourself to look with “fresh eyes”, it can be challenging to assess what is known and familiar. To avoid overlooking problems that can be easily fixed, take a friend and take a camera. Both will be of great assistance in helping you notice things that you may have become blind to through familiarity.
A fancy camera is not required, as any digital or cell phone camera will do the trick. Just make sure take a lot of pictures so that you can judge the property from a variety of different angles as you approach the building.
Once you’ve taken a fresh view of the property, you’ll want to make a list of all the elements you can identify as needing improvement.
Catch Up On Yard Work
Mowing the lawn, pulling weeds and repairing bald spots and dead grass will go a long way towards improving curb appeal. These are low cost basics that can be easily attended to in an afternoon or delegated to your yard staff.
Tired looking flower beds can be revitalized with fresh mulch and new edging. Don’t get sentimental about dead or dying vegetation, dead plants will never elicit a favorable feeling so ditch them freely and be unyielding in your attacks on overgrown shrubbery.
Power Wash or Paint
A coat of fresh paint can work miracles for increasing curb appeal, but you’ll want to start with a good pressure wash first. There’s no point painting when a good scrubbing will have a similar effect for less effort and expense.
Of course, you don’t want to put off painting if it’s clear that it needs doing. Paint is protective and allowing it to peel, flake or fade away can cause even more costly damage.
Create A Grand Entrance
Even if an all-over painting is not in the cards for this turnover, yous might want to refinish or repaint the front door anyway. A newly painted front door can be a great focal point and can signify a fresh new start to potential renters. Don’t forget to polish up or replace any hardware to complete the look. A wreath might be over the top for a rental, but should definitely be considered if you’re looking to sell.
Repair, Replace, Rejuvenate
Take note of anything that might be shabby, worn or outdated. House numbers can get worn over time and become less visible from the street. Mailboxes can fade and lean over time. Outdoor light fixtures can become cracked, faded or just go out style if they were installed during a fad. These are all easy and inexpensive updates.
Increasing the curb appeal of your rental properties needn’t be complicated or expensive. It simply takes a little more attention to detail and a commitment to fixing any deficiencies quickly. The investment it takes should yield results by attracting tenants who care about details and will follow your lead in caring for the property well through their tenancy.
