Don't Sweat It: Tips to Prepare Your Rental For Summer

Can’t believe it’s almost summer and need to prepare your rental home? We’ve got tips just for you. Seasonal preparation can reduce maintenance costs, and preserve or even increase the value of your rental. Here at Windermere Property Management, we manage every Kitsap County rental with integrity and care, treating each home as if it were our own. Below we’ve covered some of the key ways in which you can ensure your rental is ready for the season.

Inspect and Address Any Issues Immediately

Checking your rental’s cooling systems are a must. Inspect AC units and fans. If the home hasn’t been vacant for a while, it’s important that you test everything and don’t leave anything to chance. In Kitsap County, recent summers have included some really hot days in the 90s. Additionally, inspect windows and doors for any drafts. Replacing old weather stripping will help keep cool air in and hot air out. Ventilation is also important. Ensure vents are clean and that there aren’t any obstructions. For indoor comfort, consider installing window treatments and ceiling fans if needed. You can also conduct an energy audit and invest in making your rental more energy efficient.

Conduct Outdoor Maintenance for Enjoyment and Safety

A little landscaping can go a long way. A few potted seasonal flowers can add a welcoming touch to your rental’s porch or deck. Make sure your lawn, hedges, and trees are tended to before it gets any hotter. This will not only increase your rental property’s curb appeal, but it will also align with safety measures. Wildfires can occur here in the summer so it’s important to clear out any brush or hazards around your property. Also, you may want to plant some fire-resistant plants. Be sure to check smoke detectors and any outdoor grills so you know they’re working properly. Lastly, inspect for any pests, including wasps’ nests and signs of rodents.

Highlight Your Rental Home’s Seasonal Features

When preparing to market your rental home, you’ll want to highlight its best features, including those that relate to summer. If it is a waterfront property or it’s near a park or pool, mention that right away. Many homes here in Kitsap County don’t have AC, but if your property does, that’s another great feature to highlight. Taking high quality summer-ready photos of your rental home can really impact its marketability online. And, if marketing your property isn’t something you have time for (along with all of the maintenance and finding great tenants), consider using a locally-owned property management company. This can be especially helpful for long-distance landlords.

Your Rental’s Location Matters

While there’s a lot of general information about rental property maintenance online, it’s important to factor in the home’s location. Knowing the climate, neighborhood, amenities, and local resources can be very beneficial. You can provide helpful information for your tenants and create a proactive approach to management. Factoring in your rental’s location will also help you make informed decisions about the local rental market and help you manage your expectations as an owner with an investment property.

One more way to prepare your rental for summer is to think about all of the local events that occur near your property so you can tell tenants about them. Kitsap County offers free summer concerts, weekly farmers’ markets, festivals, and more. Check out our Kitsap Events Guide to learn more.