There are pros and cons to adding a stucco finish to your Acton rental property. Similar to all exterior siding options, there are great reasons to invest in stucco for a rental home, but certain downsides may make stucco a less attractive option. You must first educate yourself on what it is and how much a stucco finish will cost to figure out whether stucco siding is right for your single-family rentals. This knowledge can help you make the best decision for your rental properties.
Stucco siding is widely utilized in many climates and locations, and it is well-known throughout the American Southwest. This is because stucco is a cement-based plaster put over a galvanized wire mesh called a lathe, which helps the plaster adhere to the wall surface and increases sturdiness. It is customary to apply stucco in three layers minimum, with any color or special finishing techniques applied to the top coat.
Pros of Stucco Siding for Your Rental
Stucco’s strength and durability are not just benefits; they are warrantees of a long-lasting investment.
- Stucco is tinted, not painted, so it can withstand fading for decades.
- Stucco can be textured for a unique and decorative look.
- With proper maintenance, stucco can last a very long time, so you will not need to budget for its replacement anytime soon.
- Stucco provides excellent protection against inclement weather.
- The cost of stucco itself is relatively low compared to other types of siding, making it an economical option.
Potential Drawbacks
Unquestionably, there are some drawbacks to consider along with the advantages that stucco provides.
- Stucco requires professional installation, which can considerably increase the cost.
- Putting stucco can be a time-intensive project, with most professional stucco companies needing several days to finish the job.
- Stucco can be damaged easily and needs professional repairs.
Another matter to consider is whether you can afford to depreciate the cost of your stucco finish for a number of years. As stated by the IRS, a significant improvement like adding stucco to your rental property’s exterior cannot be deducted as an expense but rather depreciated over time. As a result, you can deduct the total cost of the stucco siding, but not in an instant. This makes prudently assessing your cash flows and tax situation a critical component of your decision-making process.
If you feel that stucco is still the best option for your properties, you must locate a reputable company that will complete the work accurately and reasonably priced.
It can be difficult to find a reputable service provider without investing a lot of time and effort in the search. Real Property Management Traditions can assist you. In addition to recommending a quality stucco professional committed to offering the best level of customer care, our Acton property managers are able to make recommendations and offer advice regarding exterior siding options. To get more information, contact us online or call 661-266-1400.
Originally Published on Nov 29, 2019
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