If you’re trying to rent out your property here in southwest Florida, first impressions matter. Having curb appeal is essential and can be the difference between people competing to be your tenant or never even giving the place a second glance. When the exterior of the property looks clean and well-maintained, it sets unspoken expectations for the property, the tenants, and the rental rate. If you want to maximize your property’s curb appeal and get the best tenants for the most rent possible, here are a few tips you can try.
Go For the Green
A lush, beautiful, and well-maintained lawn is an instant boost to your property’s value. The climate in southwest Florida makes it possible to keep a vibrant and lively yard all year with a little care. Mowing regularly, irrigating without overwatering, and planting grass that thrives in our warm temps are all great choices. Throw in some mulched flower beds and you’ve got a lawn that will make everyone green with envy.
Incorporate Native Plants
While you’re planning the lawn, be sure to go with plants and flowers that are native to Florida for the best results. Native plants will be better suited to the local climate and resistant to any harsh conditions, including the sometimes scorching summer heat. Saw palmettos, firebush, hibiscus, and some ferns are all good options to create a beautiful tropical landscape that is also easy to care for and better for the local ecosystem.
Make it Welcoming
Beyond the lawn, the first thing potential tenants will see is the porch and entryway. Always make sure these areas are clean and well-maintained…a good scrub down and a fresh coat of paint should do the trick. If there are any repairs that need to be made to this area, be sure to do so before showing it off to potential renters. Changing the door locks, making sure the house numbers are clearly visible, and adding some seating and potted plants to this area will help create an inviting, renter-friendly atmosphere.
Address Exterior Repairs
While you’re making any needed repairs to the entryway, take some time to assess the rest of the property’s exterior. Peeling paint, loose gutters, loose siding, and damaged driveways are all common wear-and-tear items that will need to be repaired before renting. Sometimes just a strong spray with a pressure washer is enough to spruce things up.
Upgrade Outdoor Living Spaces
One of the best parts of living in southwest Florida is being able to use outdoor spaces all year long. When showing a property to potential tenants, having all the outdoor spaces in their best condition is crucial. Check all patios, porches, lanais, balconies, and more to be sure they’re clean and damage-free. Consider adding seating and decor to these areas to make them more inviting and show off their usability. For people who love spending time outdoors, a great outdoor space could be a game-changer.
Prioritize Pest Prevention
The tropical climate here might make outdoor entertaining a year-round thing, but it also makes a great home for pesky critters. Regularly scheduled pest control treatments are the best protection against an insect invasion. Be sure to have a treatment done about a week before showing the property to potential tenants. Keeping the area free of debris and installing screens on windows, doors, and porches are also good ways to keep the critters out.
Let Douglas Help You Set the Stage
Let’s face it…the rental market here in southwest Florida is fierce. With so many property owners vying for the same rental dollars, you must make your property stand out from the pack. That’s where the rental market expertise at Douglas Realty Property Management can benefit you. Our team knows just what to do to get tenants into your property and keep them there long-term. If you want high-quality, reliable tenants without the hassle of managing the properties and tenants yourself, contact us to find out more about our full-service property management solutions. Give us a call at 239-542-6906 or send us a message online, and turn your rental properties into passive profit today!
