Fence for Triplex? Best options? Do renters consider fences?

[Jon S.]

I am renovating a triplex and will soon be done and putting it out there for rent. I'm trying to decide whether to put up a fence, which would separate the yards into small areas, and provide overall fence around the whole property. The questions I have are: What's an economical fence to use? What will look good? What will add value to the property as far as an appraisal value goes? Will a property with privacy fence be easier to rent than one without a fence, or is this not even a consideration by renters? Can a fenced property command higher rent? The neighborhood is so-so, it's close to very nice neighborhoods, but this particular location gets people from public housing walking down the street, and also has neighbors who are a bit loud and obnoxious. I'm trying to offset that with fence, so I can attract a better tenant, but don't want to waste money on something that won't work. Also, the question comes up, which is more secure, privacy fence, or non-privacy fence. On the one hand, privacy fence sounds more secure but is it really? Parking will be outside the fence. If the cars are parked outside the privacy fence, making them not visible to the tenant, is that more secure? I know there is no one single answer to any of this, but any experience, any insights, would be appreciated. Thank you

[Doug H.]

It probably depends on the market. I'm in San Diego with a climate that lends itself to outdoor living. I frequently modify fencing to create private yards. At least in San Diego, private yards will allow for higher rents, unlike common yards. I go with 6ft solid privacy fence.