When to Make Upgrades to Your Home

When to Make Upgrades to Your Home ~ Southern Residential Leasing

No matter how well your tenants maintain the appliances in your home, they’ll have to be replaced at some point. Any savvy owner knows that when a tenant occupies a property for a long time, the appliances will begin to show some wear and tear. It isn’t a reflection on your tenant, but simply something that happens over time. Knowing when to make upgrades to your home ensures a positive tenant experience. Even something as simple as a fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your home! Read below for our tips on when to make upgrades to your home with ease.

Refrigerator

Your refrigerator operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, whether you’re at home or on vacation. Most refrigerators last anywhere from 10-20 years and need minimal repairs. If your refrigerator is less than 10 years old but is beginning to lack efficiency, consider repairs instead of replacing it. If your refrigerator is nearing 20 years, it may be time for a replacement. Check your refrigerator regularly to ensure there is no condensation and the motor is silent. When looking to replace your refrigerator, consider an Energy Star-rated refrigerator to cut back on electricity usage as well as costs.

Washer/Dryer

While a washer/dryer is not a mandatory component in every rental home, it’s certainly appreciated by tenants who aren’t moving with one. Like a refrigerator, your washer and dryer have a lifespan of 8-12 years. Extend the life of your dryer by cleaning your lint trap regularly. You should also clean your washer and dryer hoses, heating element, and dryer ducts at least once a year. When lint accumulates on the heating element or in the ducts, this can spark a dryer fire – nobody wants that!

Dishwasher

With a life expectancy of 8-10 years, your dishwasher should be operational through several long-term tenants. Dishwashers can be relatively inexpensive, starting at about $400 for a good model. If you’ve made repairs on your dishwasher and it doesn’t seem to clean dishes as well as it once did, then it’s time to start shopping. Loud clanging noises from inside the dishwasher that isn’t plates rattling around can also be a sign that it’s time to replace your dishwasher. Be sure to partner with your property manager first on repairs before throwing in the towel.

HVAC System

Your HVAC system works around the clock to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, therefore using a lot of energy. Depending on the season, your HVAC may work a little harder at times. Thankfully, a healthy HVAC system lasts anywhere from 15-20 years. Preventative maintenance extends the lifespan of your HVAC, helping identify problems and keeping the system operating at its best.

Exterior

The exterior isn’t an appliance, but still something to be considered! When prospective tenants are shopping your home, the first thing they’ll see is the exterior. The standard length between fresh coats is every 5-10 years, but you might want to paint more frequently depending on the finish. Wood siding should be painted every 3-7 years; aluminum siding and stucco require a coat every 5-6 years; newer materials like cement fiberboard can last between 10-15 years.

Visit here to learn more about our experienced team and how we can help you take care of your investment. The above photos are of 458 Craftsman Ave, a stunning long-term rental home in Fairhope, Alabama with brand-new construction. These appliances are all in top shape, so tenants won’t need to worry about maintenance for a good while! Take 50% off application fees and the first month’s rent if you move in during February. Schedule a showing today!

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Tags: Business Development February 2019 Property Management When to Make Upgrades to Your Home