If you’re preparing an older Danville rental property for new tenants, you may be imagining techniques and ways to renovate the home and, expectantly, appeal to a new generation of renters. But, however, before you hit the ground tearing out or painting over things, there are certain features in older homes that shouldn’t be remodeled or changed up. Not only are these features that lend a home finesse, beauty, and character but, in fact, trying to change them may end up being so much more expensive than it’s worth. Before you alter any unique features of your property, take time to consider 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 quick to clear out or cover up hardwood flooring. Both you and your tenants can appreciate the beauty of a hardwood floor, and it may even hugely help boost your property values. Just think of all the carpet cleaning you can keep away from after each move-out.
Exposed Beams and Mantels
In that regard, if your property has wooden mantels or exposed ceiling beams, think twice before ever deciding to remove or paint over them. Natural wood features remain greatly popular with homeowners and renters and add warm beauty and comfort to any room. Refinish a wooden mantel or leave your rustic wood beams exactly the same, giving a charming farmhouse feel that will definitely distinguish your rental.
Millwork, Arches, and Pocket Doors
Older homes, most importantly those built before the turn of the twentieth century, characteristically have unique design features such as distinctive crown molding, arched doorways, pocket doors, and even medallions and other trim on the ceilings and walls. Even while such pieces may not seem to have a place in modern architecture, think again! Such unique details are trendy and in demand again, at present, which will only add to your rental property’s appeal.
Stained Glass
One other notably unique feature often found in older homes is stained glass. Stained glass windows have had their moments in popularity over the years, and while some people might not like them at all, others find them quite charming. With that said that, that doesn’t point out you should tear it out.
Colored glass panes actually help add light to dark spaces while establishing privacy. Also, you can always move the stained glass panes to a less evident place in the house, for instance, a bathroom window. This will help preserve the home’s unique style and history while letting you appeal to a wide range of renters.
Banquettes and Butler Pantries
After several years of homes built without utility rooms and built-in features, the appeal and demand for these valuable elements has come back stronger than ever. Thus, if your older rental home has a butler pantry (small room next to the kitchen) or banquettes (built-in bench seating), you should seriously think about keeping them. Homeowners and renters alike take delight in the utility and convenience of built-ins, while a butler pantry makes a splendid coffee station, work, or storage area.
Planning a rental property renovation is always an actual challenge. But take note, it’s necessary not to disregard the appeal of your property’s unique details. Rather than trying to clear them out, working with them can count a lot toward adding character, charm, and value to your property.
Would you like to ascertain more about creating a rental property that tenants will love? You can certainly trust the local experts at Real Property Management Diablo Valley. Don’t hesitate to call us at 925-658-5755 or contact us online.
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