Renters Have Options—Here’s How to Make Them Pick Yours
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by Emily Graham, Mighty Moms
Renters Have Options—Here’s How to Make Them Pick Yours
The rental market in many cities isn’t just competitive for tenants—it’s increasingly competitive for landlords too. With renters growing more selective, driven by rising costs and flexible work-from-anywhere lifestyles, owning an investment property means thinking like a host, not just a homeowner. It's no longer enough to slap on a coat of paint and call it a day. Standing out in today’s rental landscape requires smart design choices, subtle luxury, and a level of finish that helps people imagine living their actual lives—not just surviving month to month.
Lean Into Timeless Over Trendy
Renters want spaces that feel current, but not kitschy. Trend-chasing can age a unit prematurely, especially when bold colors or overly specific aesthetics become passé before the lease is even up. That’s why neutral palettes, matte finishes, and natural textures have become enduring favorites. They offer a clean slate while allowing renters to project their own personalities onto the space, whether that means mid-century accents or farmhouse vibes, without clashing with the fixed elements of the unit.
Market the Space Like a Pro, Not a Landlord
Smart marketing starts well before anyone books a showing. Great photos and clear descriptions are essential, but going a step further by sending a sleek, well-designed PDF can set your listing apart. Following a guide that shows you how to use online PDF editor tools, you can easily create, update, and share property brochures without ever touching a printer. Combine that with a social media post or a well-timed email, and you’ve got a professional-level approach that puts your property directly in front of motivated renters.
Upgrade the Kitchens and Bathrooms—Seriously
It’s often said that kitchens and bathrooms sell homes. The same holds true for rentals—they can make or break a decision. A dated laminate counter or a flimsy plastic shower liner won’t cut it with today’s renter who compares five listings in one afternoon. A remodel here is worth every cent, especially when the upgrades are done with quality materials and thoughtful layouts. For owners ready to commit, Builder Specialties K I T C H E N + B A T H offers a broad range of appliances, fixtures, and finishes that can elevate a property from forgettable to sought-after. From sleek dishwashers to luxury rain showers, sourcing from a trusted provider like Builder Specialties K I T C H E N + B A T H is one of the smartest ways to invest in long-term tenant appeal. We work with numerous landlords and property management companies around the Twin State region and have recently expanded into Massachusetts and New York.
Offer Built-In Moments of Comfort
The extras often seal the deal. A small reading nook, built-in shelving, or a bench by the entryway can turn a sterile apartment into a place someone wants to come home to. Renters are not just looking for square footage; they’re scanning for signs that a space has been considered with care. Even modest upgrades—like dimmable lighting, blackout curtains, or ceiling fans—signal that a landlord isn’t phoning it in. These thoughtful touches don’t have to blow the budget either; they just have to show that someone actually lived in the space mentally before asking a renter to do it physically.
Pet-Friendly Choices Are People-Friendly Too
Landlords sometimes resist pet-friendly policies, but incorporating durable design choices can minimize damage and expand the tenant pool at the same time. Flooring that resists scratches and stains—like vinyl plank or tile—is a safe bet. Built-in hooks for leashes near the front door or even low window sills that let pets watch the world go by are easy wins. These changes may feel tailored to four-legged companions, but they also signal a broader understanding of how people live. In many cities, renters simply won't consider a place that feels sterile or restrictive.
Exterior Appeal Isn’t Just Curb Appeal
The outside counts, even for long-term tenants. Simple things like a well-maintained entry, proper lighting, and tidy landscaping can elevate the perceived value of a rental and improve safety at the same time. Properties with patios or balconies should treat those areas like extensions of the living space, not afterthoughts. Additions like privacy screens, outdoor lighting, and even a few potted plants can create moments of calm that resonate deeply with renters who crave both style and sanctuary.
Ultimately, design decisions and practical upgrades filter down to one thing: how a place makes a person feel. If a rental property helps someone picture their life there, from breakfast to bedtime, it already has an edge. The competition is rarely about square footage or price alone—it’s emotional. Property owners who recognize that and build their spaces accordingly aren’t just filling units—they’re building demand.
Discover how Builder Specialties K I T C H E N + B A T H can transform your kitchen and bathroom dreams into reality with expert design and a complimentary consultation—visit Builder Specialties K I T C H E N + B A T H today!
