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Maximizing Your Property’s Rental Potential Through Repairs & Updates

The goal isn’t lavish upgrades. It’s smart, durable, cost-effective choices that improve appeal and minimize long-term expenses!

Audience: Rental property owners looking for practical, high-impact steps to increase rentability, reduce vacancy, attract better tenants, and enhance long-term property value.

Whether you’re preparing for a new tenancy, re-renting after turnover, or simply looking to strengthen performance, small, strategic improvements can significantly increase your rental property’s market potential. 

Here’s how to maximize your property’s rental performance.

FAQs ❓

Do I need to completely renovate to increase rentability?
Not at all - targeted upgrades often outperform full remodels in rentals.

What upgrades have the highest ROI?
Flooring, paint, lighting, and curb appeal are top contenders.

Should I choose trendy finishes to attract tenants?
No - timeless, neutral, durable finishes perform best in rental homes.

Does MoveZen help evaluate upgrade options?
Yes - we offer guidance based on rental trends and property performance.

1. Install Durable, Attractive Flooring (Top ROI) 

Flooring is one of the biggest factors renters notice.

Best choice: Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP)

✔ Durable
✔ Waterproof
✔ Pet-friendly
✔ Modern appearance
✔ Long lifespan
✔ Easy to replace a few planks
✔ Performs extremely well in marketing photos

Replacing carpet with LVP often increases rental value and reduces turnover costs significantly.

Related:
https://know.movezen360.com/benefits-of-lvp

2. Use Fresh, Neutral Paint Colors 

Paint is one of the cheapest upgrades with the biggest impact.

Best practices:

✔ Light gray, greige, or soft white
✔ Eggshell finish
✔ Single-color consistency throughout
✔ No bold or trendy accent walls
✔ Keep touch-up paint labeled and stored

Fresh paint makes the home feel newer and cleaner, which increases interest and perceived value.

3. Improve Lighting for a Modern, Bright Feel 

Lighting dramatically affects how homes photograph and feel.

High-impact upgrades:

✔ Bright, daylight-temperature LED bulbs
✔ Updated light fixtures
✔ Replacing yellow, dim lights
✔ Modern ceiling fans in living areas and bedrooms

Bright, clean lighting makes rooms feel larger and more welcoming.

4. Refresh Kitchens and Bathrooms Without a Full Remodel 

These two spaces drive renter decisions more than any others.

Simple, cost-effective updates:

  • Refinish cabinets

  • Replace hardware

  • Install modern faucets

  • Add bright lighting

  • Replace old flooring with LVP

  • Upgrade mirrors in bathrooms

  • Add a backsplash (optional for mid/high-tier rentals)

Even minor updates can transform the home’s look.

Related:
https://know.movezen360.com/refinishing-cabinets

5. Maintain Strong Curb Appeal 

First impressions start before a tenant walks inside.

Best curb appeal upgrades:

✔ Clean and trimmed landscaping
✔ Fresh mulch
✔ Power washing exterior surfaces
✔ Repainting front door
✔ Updated house numbers
✔ Well-lit entryway
✔ Repaired screens, gutters, and shutters

Curb appeal directly affects leasing speed and quality of applicants.

6. Ensure Everything Works Properly (Function Matters!) 

Tenants value functionality more than luxury.

Confirm:

  • Appliances work correctly

  • HVAC filters are replaced

  • Windows open and close

  • Blinds function

  • Faucets don’t drip

  • Doors latch properly

  • Smoke/CO detectors are compliant

  • Outlets are functional

Small issues can create big impressions - good or bad.

7. Prioritize Cleanliness and Odor Control 

It’s hard to overstate how much cleanliness impacts rental potential.

Musts for turnovers:

✔ Deep cleaning
✔ Professional carpet cleaning (if carpet remains)
✔ Eliminating pet or smoke odors
✔ Cleaning appliances inside and out
✔ Sanitizing bathrooms

Odors are one of the top reasons renters reject homes.

8. Pet-Friendly Homes Attract More Renters 

Not every home is ideal for pets, but many renters have them.

Benefits of pet-friendly rentals:

✔ Larger applicant pool
✔ Higher rental rates
✔ Reduced vacancy times

Just ensure flooring and materials can withstand pet use.

9. Offer Modern Amenities When Possible 

Small amenities can differentiate your property from similar listings:

  • USB outlets

  • Smart thermostats

  • Keyless entry

  • Updated ceiling fans

  • Energy-efficient appliances

These upgrades improve marketing appeal with relatively low cost.

10. Keep Turnover Times Tight 

The faster a rental is ready, the faster it leases.

MoveZen helps owners:

  • Schedule vendors efficiently

  • Standardize materials

  • Reduce delays

  • Prepare homes with consistent quality

Speed + quality = higher rental potential.

11. Price It Competitively — and Strategically 

A well-prepared home should be priced based on:

✔ Current market data
✔ Comparable properties
✔ Seasonal trends
✔ Property condition
✔ Lease term flexibility

MoveZen performs detailed pricing analysis to help owners avoid underpricing or overpricing.

12. Professional Photos Are Non-Negotiable 📸

Great marketing photos:

✔ Dramatically increase listing views
✔ Improve scheduling requests
✔ Highlight upgrades
✔ Elevate perceived value

Tenants shop visually clean, well-lit photos are essential.

13. Maintain Good Tenant Relationships 🤝

Good tenants:

✔ Renew more often
✔ Care for the home better
✔ Cause fewer turnover costs
✔ Are more flexible with minor inconveniences

MoveZen helps maintain clear communication and expectations to support long-term tenancy.

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