Owning rental properties can be a great way to make money, but it comes with its challenges. One big challenge is keeping the property in good shape. The easiest way to avoid problems is to pick the right materials and fixtures for your rentals. In this post, we’ll talk about things you should avoid putting in your rental property and suggest better options.
Stay Away from Lever Door Handles
Lever-style door handles may look fancy, but they break easily. Tenants can accidentally pull them too hard, and they stop working. Instead, use regular round doorknobs. They last longer and are less likely to cause problems.
Avoid Sliding Glass Shower Doors
Sliding glass shower doors might look nice, but they’re a hassle to maintain. The tracks can fill up with soap scum or hair, making the doors hard to slide. They can even come off the track, creating a safety issue. Use shower curtains or hinged glass doors instead. They’re easier to clean and don’t break as often.
Skip Rain Shower Heads
Rain shower heads are wide and stylish, but they can be a headache in rentals. Hard water builds up on them and clogs the holes, especially if tenants don’t refill water softeners. This slows the water flow, leading to tenant complaints. A regular showerhead is a better choice for rentals.
Invest in Quality Kitchen Faucets
Pull-out kitchen faucets are handy, but cheap ones break fast. The retracting mechanism often stops working, leaving tenants frustrated. Spend a little more on a high-quality faucet. It will last longer and save you money on repairs.
Choose Durable Door Stops
Spring door stops are notorious for getting damaged by vacuum cleaners, leading to holes in the drywall when doors slam. Replace them with solid metal door stoppers that screw into the wooden trim. These are virtually indestructible and eliminate additional repair work.
Avoid Installing Garbage Disposals
Garbage disposals are one of the most complained-about fixtures in rental properties. Tenants often misuse them by putting in non-disposable items like forks or large debris. When these machines get jammed, they can burn out motors and become a costly repair. It's usually best to skip them altogether and save yourself the trouble.
Tips for Those with Garbage Disposals
If a garbage disposal is part of your rental, providing some guidance can help. Instruct tenants to reset it using the under-sink key or reset button, potentially fixing simple jams without professional help.
Rethink Dishwashers
Not everyone knows how to properly load a dishwasher, and misuse can end up costing you. Tenants often load dishes with food still encrusted, leading to clogged drains and overflow issues. Consider alternatives or provide clear instructions to minimize these headaches.
Do Regular Inspections
To keep your property in good shape, inspect it regularly. Every three months, check smoke alarms, furnace filters, and for signs of water damage. Catching small problems early can save you a lot of money.
Know Your Tenants
Rental management also involves knowing your target market, especially if you're in wholesale real estate and need to appeal to end buyers or investors. Every rental property is different. High-end properties usually have tenants who take better care of things, while lower-cost rentals might require more attention. Knowing your market can help you prepare for the level of care your property will need.
Pets and Your Rentals
Pets can be rough on a rental, but many tenants have them. Set clear rules for pets and schedule inspections to check for damage. Let tenants know in advance when you’ll inspect so they feel respected.
Keep Learning
If you want to get better at managing rentals, learn from others in the real estate business. Join groups or take part in challenges to stay updated on the best practices. Careful planning and smart choices will help you make more money from your rentals while keeping your tenants happy.
Conclusion
Making the right choices for your rental property can save you a lot of time, money, and stress. Avoid fixtures and materials that break easily, like lever handles or sliding shower doors, and go for durable, low-maintenance options. Regular inspections and clear communication with tenants can also help prevent small issues from turning into big problems.
By planning carefully and picking smart upgrades, you’ll protect your investment, keep tenants happy, and enjoy a smoother rental experience. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to managing rentals successfully and making the most out of your property.
