If you’re preparing an older Sammamish rental property for new tenants, you may be taking into consideration ways and means to renovate the home and, hopefully, appeal to a new generation of renters. Still, before you set out tearing out or painting over things, there are one or a few details in older homes that you shouldn’t remodel or change. Not only are these details that lend a home elegance and character but, more so, trying to change them may end up being a lot more expensive than it’s worth. Before you alter any unique features of your property, look at the benefits of keeping the features on our list.
Hardwood Floors
You may be contemplating only about the long-term maintenance involved. Don’t be too hasty to clear away or cover up hardwood flooring. Both you and your tenants can find pleasure in the beauty of a hardwood floor, and it may even help exceedingly boost your property values. Just think of all the carpet cleaning you can happily avoid after each move-out.
Exposed Beams and Mantels
Also, if your property has wooden mantels or exposed ceiling beams, think twice prior to removing or painting over them. Natural wood features continue to be immensely popular with homeowners and renters and add a warm beauty and coziness to any room. Refinish a wooden mantel or leave your rustic wood beams in its present condition, lending a charming farmhouse feel that will certainly distinguish your rental.
Millwork, Arches, and Pocket Doors
Older homes, specifically those built before the turn of the twentieth century, generally have unique design features, to cite an instance distinctive crown molding, arched doorways, pocket doors, and even medallions and other trim on the ceilings and walls. Even as such elements may not seem to have a place in modern architecture, think again! Such unique details are trendy and in demand at present, which will only significantly add to your rental property’s appeal.
Stained Glass
Another specially unique feature often found in older homes is stained glass. Stained glass windows have had their moments in popularity through the years, and while many people may not value it, other people actually find it particularly charming. But really, that doesn’t mean you should tear it out.
Colored glass panes effectively help add light to dark spaces while keeping your privacy. Besides that, you can always move the stained glass panes to a less noticeable place in the house, like a bathroom window. This will help preserve the home’s unique style and history while easily enabling you to appeal to a wide range of renters
Banquettes and Butler Pantries
After years and years of homes built without utility rooms and built-in features, the appeal and demand for these valuable elements has returned stronger than ever. Consequently, if your older rental home has a butler pantry (small room next to the kitchen) or banquettes (built-in bench seating), you should look at keeping them. Homeowners and renters alike find pleasure in the utility and convenience of built-ins, while a butler pantry makes a magnificent coffee station, work, or storage area.
Planning a rental property renovation is always a challenge, even an ordeal. Even so, it’s critical not to take for granted the appeal of your property’s unique details. Rather than trying to clear them away, working with them can greatly contribute to adding character, charm, and value to your property.
Would you like to know more about creating a rental property that tenants will love? You can depend on the local experts at Real Property Management Eclipse. Make sure to call us at 425-209-0252 or contact us online.
Originally Published on October 29, 2021
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