Curb Appeal & Stewardship

[Trevor Ewen]

We just finished getting our new duplex tenant ready in Richmond, VA. We're really happy with the rehab. In the process of our work, met all the immediate neighbors. They are owner occupants.

The house had been on the market for awhile. Most of the neighbors were happy to see that 'someone' will occupy it. They just may have hoped it was new owners moving in, not tenants. 

The neighborhood (Chestnut Hill, Highland Park) has some maturing to do. We certainly expect to have higher retail demand in the future. We want to convince the other owners that we're landlords who really care. Looking for some creative curb appeal ideas from anyone, particularly those in the market. Some ideas from us:

White picket fence
A few (additional) hardy shrubs around the main porch
Colorful door

[Marcia Maynard]

Make sure your rental agreement is clear about landscape maintenance. If it is the tenant's responsibility and they don't keep it in check, then have a clause that allows you to have it done at their expense.

Also, establish clear expectations in the rental agreement about noise, illegal activities, parking, etc. Anything that you can anticipate as a potential problem, clarify it in the rental agreement and property rules. Common sense is not common, so spell it out.

Let the neighbors know to contact you if they notice any problems with the upkeep of the property or the behavior of the occupants. Let them know what you value. Give them your business card. Also, let the tenants know more about the characteristics of the neighborhood and that you value good neighbor relationships.