If you’re preparing an older Sammamish rental property for new tenants, it wouldn’t hurt to have a few renovations here and there, especially because of the newer generation of tenants. In older homes, though, there are a few features that should be kept as is and should not be remodeled. It is these features that give your home its identity, and remodeling them might even be expensive for you in the long run. Before you remodel any unique features of your property, contemplate how you can preserve them for their character, instead.
Hardwood Floors
If you’re big on long-term maintenance, you could benefit from this. Don’t be so quick to remove or cover up hardwood flooring. The beauty of a hardwood floor can be what attracts tenants, as well as boost your property values. Think about all of the carpet cleanings you can save on!
Exposed Beams and Mantels
Likewise, if your property has wooden mantels or exposed ceiling beams, maybe you won’t have to resort to removing or painting over them. Because of the warm beauty of natural wood features, many homeowners and renters prefer this aesthetic. Refinish a wooden mantel or leave your rustic wood beams as-is, lending a charming farmhouse feel that will distinguish your rental.
Millwork, Arches, and Pocket Doors
Older homes, especially those built before the turn of the twentieth century, often have unique design features like distinctive crown molding, arched doorways, pocket doors, and even medallions and other trim on the ceilings and walls. So what if these features aren’t the typical style of modern architecture? They can be their own thing, for sure! Still, these unique details are back to being trendy and in-demand, adding to your rental property’s appeal.
Stained Glass
The stained glass found in older homes is something that adds so much charm to the house. Even though there are people who find them unattractive, stained glass windows have always been a classic throughout history. Still, these windows can be put to good use in the hands of someone creative. Colored glass panes help add light to dark spaces while preserving privacy. Perhaps you could even relocate the stained glass panes to another part of the house like a bathroom window. Doing this can keep the home’s unique style and history while making it attractive to new renters.
Banquettes and Butler Pantries
For the past years, homes were built without utility rooms and built-in features. Now, these useful elements are, once again, back in demand. Because of this, if your older rental home has a butler pantry (small room next to the kitchen) or banquettes (built-in bench seating), keeping them might be a good idea. Built-ins can be enjoyed by homeowners and renters alike — they can also make good use of a butler pantry for whatever needs they might have for their storage.
The reality is, it’s not easy to renovate a rental property. And yet, you should remember to notice the property’s unique details. It is these details that will eventually be the key to raising the value of your property because of the character they give your rental.
Would you like to learn more about creating a rental property that tenants will love? Trust the local experts at Real Property Management Eclipse. You can call us at 425-209-0252 or contact us online.
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