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My List of 10 Essential Design Elements to Increase Rentability

  • Writer: Bea
    Bea
  • Apr 10
  • 3 min read

Updated: Apr 26

When it comes to making a long-term residential rental appealing and ensuring consistent occupancy, paying attention to several design elements - measured against rental demand/rental price - are foundational to enhancing the living experience of rental units:

  

  1. Functional Layout: Tenants appreciate a layout that maximizes space and allows for easy movement. Open floor plans and well-defined living areas can make even smaller units feel more spacious.


  2. Natural Light: Ample natural light can make a space more inviting and uplifting. Large windows, strategically placed skylights, and light-colored walls can enhance brightness.

     


    Natural light fills this Arizona sunroom which opens onto the patio and back lawn.
    Natural light fills this Arizona sunroom which opens onto the patio and back lawn.

  3. Modern Amenities: Updated kitchens and bathrooms are significant selling points but in rental investment properties - the cost of these amenities must be balanced with return on income. Features like stainless steel appliances, stone countertops, and contemporary fixtures can make a property more attractive and functional.


  4. Storage Space: Adequate storage, including closets, cabinets, and possibly additional storage units, is crucial. Built-in shelving and smart storage solutions can also add value.


    In this rental, the washer and dryer are situated in the bathroom. Cabinets (with doors) were removed and recycled to give way for open shelving above the appliances. Storage area for larger items (such as laundry baskets, taller and wider cleaning supplies, and space for folded towels, etc., was increased. The open shelving adds dimension and makes the narrow bathroom feel more spacious. The bathroom door is not a threat to cabinet doors.
    In this rental, the washer and dryer are situated in the bathroom. Cabinets (with doors) were removed and recycled to give way for open shelving above the appliances. Storage area for larger items (such as laundry baskets, taller and wider cleaning supplies, and space for folded towels, etc., was increased. The open shelving adds dimension and makes the narrow bathroom feel more spacious. The bathroom door is not a threat to cabinet doors.

  5. Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and proper insulation can attract eco-conscious tenants and reduce utility costs, making the property more appealing.


  6. Outdoor Space: Access to outdoor areas such as balconies, patios, or gardens can be a major draw. Outdoor space provides a place for relaxation and recreation, which can be a big plus for tenants.


  7. Safety Features: Secure locks, well-lit entrances, and alarm systems can provide tenants with a sense of security. Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers are essential.


    This is a Ting Monitor - it was originally offered as part of my State Farm insurance coverage policy. I purchased another Ting monitor for this rental. Disclosure: the Ting Monitor requires internet connection which renters typically obtain but the subscription is paid by me, the Landlord.
    This is a Ting Monitor - it was originally offered as part of my State Farm insurance coverage policy. I purchased another Ting monitor for this rental. Disclosure: the Ting Monitor requires internet connection which renters typically obtain but the subscription is paid by me, the Landlord.

  8. Aesthetic Appeal: A clean, modern, and neutral decor allows tenants to visualize their own style in the space. Avoiding overly trendy designs ensures the property remains timeless.


    Contrary to furnished short-term rentals, a longer term rental is often a "blank" canvas in which renters bring their own furniture and furnishings as expression of their particular tastes and styles. Clean, modern, neutral decor means renters are more likely to choose your "canvas" over too trendy or outdated ones that conflicts with their personal style preferences.
    Contrary to furnished short-term rentals, a longer term rental is often a "blank" canvas in which renters bring their own furniture and furnishings as expression of their particular tastes and styles. Clean, modern, neutral decor means renters are more likely to choose your "canvas" over too trendy or outdated ones that conflicts with their personal style preferences.

  9. Community Features: Proximity to amenities like parks, public transportation, shops, and schools can significantly enhance the desirability of a rental property.



    This rental is kitty-corner from the complex's recreation area. The photo points out the unit's proximity to the common area pool, "pet park", BBQ and picnic area. The expansive, open view plane available from this rental apartment suggests that more privacy might be had at this unit's location along with the green lawn views of the common recreation area.
    This rental is kitty-corner from the complex's recreation area. The photo points out the unit's proximity to the common area pool, "pet park", BBQ and picnic area. The expansive, open view plane available from this rental apartment suggests that more privacy might be had at this unit's location along with the green lawn views of the common recreation area.

  10. Maintenance: Regular maintenance and prompt repairs keep the property in good condition and enhance tenant satisfaction. Providing reliable property management can also be a key selling point.

 

Ultimately, understanding the preferences of the target tenant demographic and incorporating these design elements can significantly enhance the rentability of a long-term residential rental.


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​The ideas shared on our site are for inspiration only. Before you start your project, be sure to check with the relevant regulatory agencies about any required permits or licenses. We recommend experienced, licensed professionals.  

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