Xmas lights on your 4plex/multifamily?

[J. Martin]

While my 4plex is in a "C" neighborhood, I like it to be the nicest place on the block. I think it helps attract good tenants, better rents, less vacancy, and less headaches in the long run. I have a nice garden that's not too much to maintain, lots of rose bushes the tenants can cut and bring inside, flowering vines on the fence (and take care of any repairs/issues around the building - real "pride of ownership"). I'm thinking about dropping a few bucks on some xmas lights to string around the front of the building, and up the staircase to brighten things up for the holidays.

About $30 for a decent amount of lights, and I assume the electricity isn't that much for the tiny little lights.. The tenants have kids, and I like to keep everyone happy and remind them of all the little reasons why this is a better place to live than most.. The kind of place you're proud to have friends/family over for the holidays, or anytime for that matter..

Does anyone take the time to put up/taken down xmas lights on their multifamily? I was thinking about maybe giving a couple cheap packages of lights to my SFR renters, but don't want someone falling off a ladder and saying I encouraged it! (And thought it would be weird to go over to their house to put them up..)

[Al Williamson]

@Ned Carey thanks for ringing my bell on this.

@J. Martin , you're my type of owner!!

Please follow you're heart on this and mix in Ned's advice.

If you were buying a tech gadget for your business, I would agree - only do it if it helps your bottom line. But we're talking about cheering people up for the holidays. A different logic is required.

Have you ever heard of micro conversions? Google's chief technologist coined the phrase because it's important not to discount the value of your customers' nods of approval.

Hanging lights at your fourplex might inspire other neighbors to do the same, it might be a little snowball at the top of a hill. Don't underestimate the power of doing what your heart tells you is the right thing. Don't hesitate when it comes to acts of kindness. Go for it Bro!