Essential Outdoor Improvements

Outdoor space is a crucially important aspect of your property. In addition, landscaping is one of the most cost effective upgrades, according to Dan Lieberman, President and Founder of Horizon Management Group. Don’t overlook pathways, parking areas and the front-door space – they’re just as important as the interior space of the units. Tenants need a great place to come home to, and that includes a pleasant atmosphere and well-kept building.

Make sure all of the basics are in place, such as a clearly marked sign with the building’s street number.

First Impressions

The front entrance to the building is not only the first impression for potential tenants, but also the first area your tenants’ guests see. The building is their home and a clean, well-maintained space should make that evident. According to an article by Lieberman in the National Apartment Association’s Best Practices Guide, this area is often referred to as the marketing corridor. Thus, it’s important to make sure the area is pleasing and inviting by planting flowers and plants or installing benches.

Outdoor Space

Create a functional outdoor space for residents by dedicating outdoor property into a garden or grass area for walking and lounging. For easy and relatively inexpensive seating, add a picnic table or two. This provides an area that residents can enjoy outdoors, especially if patios or balconies are not part of the building.

Parking Areas

Parking lots and street parking should be well-lit, with space borders clearly marked. Residents need to feel safe at night when walking from their cars into the building. Whether or not the parking is within your property, keep track of any repairs or improvements that need to be made to maintain a nice parking area.