When it comes to rentals - amenities on the inside of the home are most appealing - upgrades, new appliances, nice flooring, built ins, etc. Next in line for popular amenities - pool, garage, workout space.
Recently though, outdoor amenities are making a comeback - residents and tenants want more outdoor living options - fireplaces, fire pits, barbecue and entertaining - are becoming more and more important amenities.
So how can landlords create a warm and fuzzy outdoor environment for tenants while keeping it safe?
- First and foremost - the yard. If the backyard is just "dirt and weeds" - fix it! Low care - add gravel and brick accents.
- If you can afford it, add a built in fireplace or chimenea. Otherwise, a less expensive option are sunken fire pits, also known as "controlled campfires" - where tenants can gather and entertain.
- Add to the safety - same as with fireplaces indoors - gas or propane options are safer than wood burning.
- Provide a grill - whether built in or movable. Tenants often do not "come with" grills - and having a backyard with one already in place is very appealing.
- Outdoor lighting - another bonus for tenants. Many options are available to provide ambiance lighting outdoors and you can almost find any type of lighting that is solar powered - adding to the perks for tenants because it costs nothing for them to have them "on".
- Shade. In Tucson, it's a must. If you have a small covered patio - consider extending or adding sun shades to add to the appeal. If the sun hits at a certain angle - consider drop down shades.
Just a few of these little touches go a long way to adding to the outdoor amenities for tenants!
Buying or selling Tucson real estate, Mt Lemmon, Tucson bank-owned homes, Tucson rental homes, or Tucson lease option homes? Visit www.KGCPropertiesLLC.com .
This blog is written with my opinions and my opinions are presented with
accuracy but not guarantees. Please talk to a professional before making any real estate, financial or agency decisions. Gabrielle Kamahele Rhind - 2014. If you want to reprint parts of this - just email me for my permission: KGCProperties@gmail.com .