A major component of the overall appeal of your Agua Dulce rental property is its backyard. But there’s a big difference between creating your dream backyard and constructing a functional, attractive one. The latter will allow you to maximize your rental rates and increase your property’s value, while the former may not accomplish either.
It makes more sense to create an appealing, low-maintenance yard that tenants will appreciate and find simple to manage rather than putting resources in an extravagant backyard for a rental property.
How much landscaping is too much?
One of the biggest mistakes you can make as a rental property owner is to overdo the landscaping. Industry experts suggest spending at most 10 percent of the property’s value in landscaping. But unless there is a tangible benefit to doing so, you don’t need to go even that high. A home with an extensively landscaped yard will not incur as much extra rent as you may assume. In fact, overdoing it on the landscaping can turn potential tenants away due to all the additional upkeep required from them.
Choose backyard upgrades that offer the highest returns for the money to keep your property attractive and profitable. The first step to a beautiful backyard isn’t even an improvement at all. Rather, concentrate on improving the quality of what currently exists. A green, neatly trimmed lawn and well-cared-for greenery will seem better right away and help boost the value of your property. If your property’s lawn is looking a bit sparse or bare, reseeding or putting some sod is one of the quickest ways to get your property’s backyard to live up to expectations.
Improve the property’s backyard affordably
Other relatively affordable backyard upgrades include outside lighting and outdoor spaces for gatherings. Think about upgrading your property’s yard with services that your tenant may utilize for parties or evening activities rather than filling it with excessive planter beds filled with flowers. Not only are these improvements cost-effective, but they can add significant value to your property.
Adding a simple patio (or deck) may seem like a luxurious addition, but offering a rental home with a ready-made space for entertaining guests may increase desirability. In addition, research has discovered that, unlike other backyard amenities, a patio or deck increases property values, making it an expense to consider for your rental property.
Adding outdoor lighting is one of the most budget-friendly backyard upgrades and offers benefits beyond simple appearance. The extra protection and utility that comes with motion-sensing or energy-efficient lighting fixtures will appeal to renters. Outdoor lighting will also complement any outdoor gathering spaces your rental property has, enhancing the home’s curb appeal after dark.
No matter the improvements you choose for your Agua Dulce rental property’s backyard, knowing which ones deliver the best return on your investment is a crucial aspect of successful property management. By highlighting excellent characteristics with a low-maintenance design, you can attract the type of renters you want while raising your property’s worth. It is within your power as a property owner to shape a backyard that tenants will love and that will enhance your property’s appeal.
At Real Property Management Traditions, we provide planning a backyard design that optimizes the use of each dollar spent. We can assist you in getting your Agua Dulce house ready for tenants by knowing which backyard upgrades result in higher rent. To know more, please contact us online or call us at 661-266-1400.
Originally Published on Dec 13, 2019
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