What makes a low-maintenance rental property?
If you’re looking for an investment property or seeking to renovate one you already own, it pays to consider the maintenance involved.
Ideally, the right property will be low-maintenance, requiring less expenditure for repairs and upkeep over time, while also making it more appealing for a rental occupier to reside there with minimal effort.
Here are six key things that make a low-maintenance rental property…
Outdoor areas
Outdoor areas can be a key feature rental occupiers seek, but it’s important to be mindful of the type of area and the materials used.
Swimming pools, wooden decks, and shade sails require ongoing maintenance and can take their toll on your budget over time.
Instead, consider how much of a benefit having a pool in a rental might be, factoring in the property’s location.
And, when it comes to outdoor spaces, bear in mind a paved or covered outdoor area might require less maintenance than decking and wood.
Gardens
A stunning garden adds a whole host of street appeal to any property, but they also require maintenance along with a bit of a green thumb.
If you’re starting from scratch with a rental property garden, try to opt for a design and plants that require minimal upkeep.
If the property boasts a large established garden, it might be worth factoring regular lawn mowing and professional garden maintenance into the rental price.
Flooring
No matter how exceptional the rental occupier is, floors bear the brunt of rental wear and tear. Where possible opt for hard wearing flooring, including carpets and tiles.
If the property has floorboards, request the occupier uses furniture pads to prevent scratches and scuffs.
Fixtures and fittings
There’s a big difference between fixtures and fittings that are on trend and in vogue and those that will stand the test of time.
If you have the option of selecting the fixtures and fittings for a rental property, opt for quality hardwearing options that will resist rust, withstand ongoing use and will last into the future.
Property style and age
If you’re looking to buy a rental property, consider its style and age. It’s no secret historic or period homes require additional upkeep and the price tag can mount up over time.
It’s also common knowledge wooden homes require more maintenance than brick ones, with regular painting required to ensure decks, balustrading and exterior boards don’t deteriorate or succumb to the weather.
Do consider the materials used in the property and the upkeep required, and if it’s a long-term investment it might pay to opt for something that’s more functional than beautiful in the interests of your maintenance budget.
The maintenance reality
Regardless of the age of the property or its style, the reality is rental properties do require ongoing maintenance and repairs.
This should be factored into your annual budget to ensure the property retains its value and also appeals to the right type of renters.
How we can help
Our experienced property managers pride themselves on establishing great relationships with both rental occupiers and owners.
We manage every property as if it were our own and you can learn more about our property management services here.
Alternatively, if you are looking to rent a property, you can view the properties we currently have available here.
