6 Ways to Elevate Your Rental Property

January 7, 2025

Whether it’s a short-term rental or a long-term rental, there are ways to make the people living in your property instantly feel at home. Elevate your rental property with these ideas and tips to make it shine over the competition.

1. Make a strong first impression

First impressions are important with any property. For rental properties, curb appeal can welcome your tenants instantly. Simple things like cleaning the windows, trimming shrubbery, and adding potted plants and lighting to the front yard can spruce it up and give a good first impression.

Additionally, a gleaming front door can add value to your home. It can also make a strong statement. On average, a new front door also recoups 75% of your investment. Finally, a functional entryway will make your renter feel instantly at home. Could you create a space for shoes, handbags, keys, and coats? This is particularly important for the short-term rental market.

2. Replace flooring or carpet

Rentals often have a lot of wear and tear on flooring. Whether it’s carpet, vinyl, or wood flooring, carefully evaluate it periodically to see if it needs to be replaced. Luxury vinyl plank flooring is an excellent option for rentals because of its durability.

Consult a flooring professional in your area since prices vary based on labor costs, the floor plan size, and the flooring brand. Considering and monitoring your flooring can also help keep unpleasant odors at bay. This especially applies if you allow pets in your rental property. While we love furry family members, they can impact flooring, so have a plan to maintain it properly.

3. Update appliances

While they don’t need to be the newest models, keeping appliances updated and in good working order will attract prospective tenants and keep a positive relationship with existing tenants. In the short-term rental market, keep smaller appliances updated as well. While staying in your home, a functioning coffee pot, toaster, and other appliances will make the visitors’ stay more enjoyable.

4. Use smart home technology

Smart home technology is a wonderful addition to long-term or short-term rentals. Smart locks can simplify the transitions between guests and eliminate the need to change locks. Another excellent investment is a smart thermostat. You or your tenants can reduce energy costs and monitor the home’s temperature from afar.

Additionally, smart water leak detectors offer another layer of protection for your rental property. It will alert you if moisture is detected above what is usually expected. This can save you time and money when responding to water leaks, ensuring action can be taken promptly.

5. Create an outdoor oasis

Creating an outdoor space for guests is particularly important for the short-term rental market. Select functional and comfortable chairs, and add colorful cushions and throw pillows. Proper lighting also helps create a peaceful ambiance outdoors. Consider purchasing a fire pit, outdoor candles, or string lights to help set a relaxing tone.

For longer-term rentals, keep landscaping simple but functional. Ensure any fencing is in good working order, as well as any walkways and grass. Clearly state in the lease who will be responsible for outdoor upkeep. If the tenant will be maintaining the outdoor area, explicitly state what you expect them to do so there are no misunderstandings.

6. Invest in the small details

For the short-term rental market, think about what guests might need. A basket of snacks will be a welcome sight for those traveling a long distance. Include everyday toiletries that may have been forgotten and laundry detergent. Local brochures and resources also provide a thoughtful touch.

Long-term renters should be aware of minor fixes that need to be completed. Be sure to take care of them proactively. Completing home upgrades within your budget and at a convenient time for you and the tenant can also add a sense of goodwill.

If you notice one particular room in your rental property looks a bit drab or dated, try something simple yet effective, such as a fresh coat of paint or a new lighting fixture. It’s incredible what an accent wall or a new floor lamp can do to brighten a room or give it a sense of personality.

Elevating your rental property is a worthwhile endeavor. Creating a modern and functional space that goes the extra mile will set your property apart from the rest. Whether you’re in the short-term or long-term rental market, proper maintenance, thoughtful updates, and attention to detail make a huge difference.

< Older Post Newer Post >

Share this post

You May Also Like to Read

Worth the Work: Why We Enjoy Property Management

January 21, 2026

Property management isn't easy but we love what we do. Learn why and read about our services for owners and tenants in Kitsap County.

Don't Miss These Holiday Events in Kitsap County

December 8, 2025

From kid-friendly holiday activities to unique NYE parties, these holiday events offer memorable ways to celebrate in Kitsap County.

Winterize Your Investment Property

November 24, 2025

Steps and tips to winterize your investment property to conduct preventative maintenance and ensure it's ready for storms.

How to Be a Successful Long-distance Landlord: 5 Tips

October 27, 2025

If you're thinking of becoming a long-distance landlord and managing your rental property from afar, here are some important tips.

Kitsap's Rental Market: What You Need to Know

September 30, 2025

Learn about Kitsap County's rental market to understand affordability, average rental prices, and data as a renter or as an owner renting out your home.

Managing Expectations When Renting Your Home

August 19, 2025

Renting out your home often comes with a mix of emotions and expectations. Managing your expectations as the owner and those of your tenants is a crucial part of the rental process. Here are some tips to help you achieve successful outcomes. Understanding the Rental Market Before renting out your home, do your research. Look at your local rental market. Are there a lot of homes for rent in your city? What about in your neighborhood? Do they sit unoccupied or are they rented out quickly? What is the average rental price for a home that is similar to yours? It’s important to set competitive rental prices while understanding supply and demand. If you work with a reputable property management company that has local expertise, they will know the market well and will properly price your rental. Preparing Your Home for Rent Ensure your home is rent-ready by prioritizing safety. As a landlord, you will be required to keep the premises fit for human habitation . This Washington state law encompasses many safety standards and home repair projects. For example, landlords must make sure that carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are in working order, as well as major electrical and plumbing fixtures and appliances. Now is the time to make any necessary repairs and deep clean your property. Whether you are renting your home furnished or unfurnished, everything should be in good condition. Check out our article for tips on preparing your property for rent . Additionally, you may want to consider some budget-friendly upgrades to enhance your home before you rent it out. It can increase the value of your home and attract more attention. Setting Realistic Financial Expectations While an investment property can be financially beneficial, we highly recommend calculating potential rental income and expenses. It’s important to understand the costs of property management and maintenance. Also, you’ll want to prepare for potential vacancies and financial fluctuations. Consider the legal side of rental properties as well. Every landlord should be familiar with local, state, and federal fair housing laws . For instance, Washington has specific laws about how security deposits are assessed, held, and returned to tenants. Increasing the rent or terminating a lease requires adherence to specific guidelines. Therefore, you’ll want to take time to do your research and consider these legal factors when pricing your home for rent . If the legal side of property management or the time required to effectively manage a rental seems overwhelming, you may want to utilize a property management company. While this does come at a cost, it can be beneficial , saving you time and money by offering professional marketing, preventative maintenance, built-in tenant screening, and property managers who are well-versed in landlord-tenant laws. Check out our local experts here at Windermere Property Management . Communication and Relationship Management After screening potential tenants, conducting credit checks, and calling references, it is essential to foster positive landlord-tenant relationships with your new renters. This begins with clear, open communication. Setting expectations with tenants from the start paves the way for transparency and builds trust. Renting out your home requires both project management and relationship management. This means that you are ready to handle sudden, needed repairs, answer contract questions, and deal with unexpected issues in a prompt and professional manner. Long-Term Planning It’s wise to set long-term goals for your rental property from the start. Renting out your home for a couple of years while you’re living elsewhere comes with one set of expectations and requirements, while renting it out as passive income for the next 10+ years is very different. Additionally, if you plan to sell it within the next few years, you will also have certain objectives to meet regarding upkeep and preserving or increasing its market value. Your local rental market may also change, so creating a plan that is both proactive and flexible is the key. If you have any questions, our property managers are here to assist you.