At Kasteel Property Management, we do more than just watch your rental property—we protect it, cultivate it, and help your investment grow. In this post, we’re sharing the 10 best improvements you can make to your rental property to attract quality tenants, reduce vacancy time, and maximize rental income.
1. Get the Right Carpet
When it’s time to replace carpet, avoid the extremes. Some landlords go cheap because they assume tenants will destroy it, while others install industrial carpet that’s uncomfortable and unappealing. Both approaches can backfire.
Quality tenants want a clean, comfortable home. Choose a mid-priced, durable carpet that feels nice underfoot and complements the property. This signals that you value your home—and in turn, attracts tenants who will too.
(Learn more about finding quality tenants in our rental screening video.)
2. Fresh Paint When Needed
Repainting is a major expense, so don’t do it after every tenant moves out. Instead, plan ahead. After each move-out, decide whether the property will need paint next time and schedule accordingly to minimize vacancy time.
Use semi-gloss or satin paint—it’s easier to clean and touch up. You can also save on labor by coordinating painting with carpet replacement so painters don’t have to tape edges.
3. Refresh Kitchen Cabinets
The kitchen sells (and rents) a home. If your cabinets look dated but are still in good shape, a coat of paint can transform the entire space without the cost of a full remodel. Updated cabinets give tenants the feeling of a clean, modern kitchen—something every renter looks for.
4. Update Fixtures and Hardware
Replacing light fixtures, doors, handles, outlet covers, and switch plates can dramatically modernize a home. It’s a small investment with a big visual payoff. If you’re already painting, plan these updates at the same time to save on labor and create a cohesive look.
5. Install a Fully Fenced Backyard
If your rental attracts families or pet owners, a fully fenced yard is a huge selling point. Sometimes all it takes is closing off the side yards. It adds security, privacy, and a sense of comfort—features that help your property rent faster and to better tenants.
6. Simplify the Landscaping
Low-maintenance landscaping keeps your property looking great while reducing costs. Avoid high-maintenance gardens and large flower beds that tenants may neglect. Opt for simple trees, shrubs, and durable grass. A clean, easy-to-maintain yard appeals to a wider range of renters and keeps turnover costs low.
7. Avoid Exterior Wood
While wood decks and fences look nice, they’re high-maintenance and costly to repair. Choose synthetic materials like vinyl or Trex (a composite decking material) that require minimal upkeep. They cost more upfront but save significantly on long-term maintenance—perfect for rental properties.
8. Don’t Use Cheap Materials
Cheap materials might save you now, but they’ll cost you later—especially if you hire out labor. Invest in quality fixtures, flooring, and appliances that hold up over time. If you’re worried about tenants damaging things, focus on better tenant screening, not cheaper repairs.
(Watch our videos on proper screening techniques and red flags when reviewing applications to learn more.)
9. Install Central Air
Many renters won’t even consider a home without central air conditioning. Upgrading from radiant heat or a swamp cooler can increase your property’s rental appeal and justify a higher monthly rate.
10. Upgrade to Modern Windows
Old windows with metal frames or fogged glass make a home feel dated and neglected. Energy-efficient, modern windows improve curb appeal, brighten interiors, and signal that the property has been well cared for—helping it rent faster and for more money.
Final Thoughts
Some of these upgrades fall under regular maintenance, while others are more relevant for older homes that need a refresh. Either way, thinking strategically about property improvements helps protect your investment and attract high-quality tenants.
If you’re in the process of purchasing a rental, check out our video on what type of rental property to buy.
At Kasteel Property Management, we help property owners throughout Utah reduce vacancy, attract great tenants, and grow their investments.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you protect and improve your rental property.
