If you’re preparing an older Palm Harbor rental property for new tenants, you might want to have it renovated so that it appeals to the new generation of tenants. Before you decide on anything, however, you have to know that there are a few features in older homes worth keeping. There are things that you shouldn’t remodel. These features give so much detail to the overall look and feel of the house. Remodeling them might prove to be counter-productive, and expensive, as well. Before you tweak any unique features of your property, maybe you can consider the benefits of keeping them, as well.
Hardwood Floors
Is long-term maintenance your main priority right now? Don’t be so quick to remove or cover up hardwood flooring. The elegance and beauty of a hardwood floor can be very alluring to tenants; so much so that it could even boost your property values. You won’t have to worry about carpet cleaning costs at all.
Exposed Beams and Mantels
And, if your property has wooden mantels or exposed ceiling beams, maybe reconsider removing or painting over them. Natural wood features are quite popular with homeowners and renters because it brings a warm beauty to any space. Refinish a wooden mantel or leave your rustic wood beams as-is, lending a charming farmhouse feel that will distinguish your rental from all of the others in the neighborhood.
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. These features may not “fit” into the aesthetic of modern architecture, but they do have their own flair to them. Unique details like this are sure to be trendy and in-demand once more, making it all the better for your rental property’s appeal.
Stained Glass
Another very sought-after feature of older homes is stained glass. Stained glass windows have always found their place throughout history, even if there are those that find it unattractive. 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. If you prefer, you could also rehouse the stained glass panes into another window in another part of a house, like a bathroom. In so doing, you preserve the home’s unique style and history without scaring off any new renters.
Banquettes and Butler Pantries
For years, homes have been built without utility rooms and built-in features. Now, the demand for these useful elements is finally back. Due to this, if your older rental home has a butler pantry (small room next to the kitchen) or banquettes (built-in bench seating), you should opt to retain them. Homeowners and renters alike will benefit greatly from the convenience of built-ins, as well as the added utility provided by a butler pantry.
Deciding on renovating a rental property can be quite the task, to be honest. But, don’t get too caught up in remodeling that you fail to see the property’s already unique details. These details are what give your property its own character and vibe. Use that to add value to your property, instead.
Would you like to learn more about creating a rental property that tenants will love? Trust the local experts at Real Property Management TradeWinds. You can call us at 727-400-4722 or contact us online.
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