Landscaping Advice for a new investor-Thanks! 4plex pics included

Landscaping Advice for a new investor-Thanks! 4plex pics included

Saint Louis, MO · Member since 2020 · 40 posts · 14 votes

Hi guys so I was fortunate enough to close on my first investment property on Monday! It kind of looks like a duplex but it is infact a very small 4 plex with very small units (not for long though because I will be opening up the floor plans:D). 

I understand that if you are investing in SFR's then you would then expect the tenant to take care of the lawn as best as they could/maintain any landscaping you may have already put in and obviously if you are talking 8, 24, and above etc. then i am aware you should probably outsource it to professionals.

My question is for anyone but especially for those of you who own 4 plexes and duplexes. Do you still try to add a little bit of landscaping? Maybe just some hearty bushes or something that doesn't need a ton of maintenance?  Do you ask them to help out with it or do you come by and do it yourself? hire it out? What do you advise? 


I am looking for ideas on how to spruce up the place/give the properties' curb appeal a little boost without breaking the bank. Besides painting the doors the same colors (LOL) what do you recommend? I also hate seeing into the tops of the windows/the blinds... Anything I should attempt to do about all the cracks in the sidewalk? The grass? add a fence?? - I also own the lot next door (to the right) but I am not certain as to what I am going to do with it yet, might sell it might hold it (improving area).

Ps. None are the cracks are actually a problem per inspector and engineer but ya.. it doesn't look great. Thank you all a ton in advance for any advice - I appreciate it! 

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  • Colleen F.Pro Member
    Investor · Narragansett, RI · Member since 2013 · 8k+ posts · 4k+ votes
    6y

    I would add something, maybe mulch and plant shrubs along the front of the house between the porches. Maximum height would be below the window. Here I like rhododendron, boxwood type of bush,  or mount laurel  but some people prefer something without flowers. You could do arborvitae. Look for what does well in your local area. My general rule of thumb is nothing with thorns, no trees, and some green year round.   This makes the front have a little personality.   As long as it is along the house it usually isn't an issue for the mower.  I inherited some of those ornamental grasses and they can spread alot and get messy so personally I don't like those but some people do.  Bulbs in the bed might we good too as they don't need care. 

     Make a plan.  Who installs it really depends on whether you like or  want to do it. You take care of it or hire it out with the mowing. Especially if you are hiring out the mowing ask the guys who you get estimates for mowing for recommendations on what to do.  If you want flowering plants only do perennials. 

    Don't forget to allow for where  the trash cans go when not out. Sidewalk cracks the insurance company may care about. I have had more insurance inspectors cite these then anything else so I would repair them.  I would only add a fence if you need it for other reasons or are selling the lot next door. Hope that helps.  

  • Real Estate Agent · Charleston, SC · Member since 2020 · 28 posts · 7 votes
    6y

    I like the bush idea! It would add a little greenery and wouldn't require too much maintenance year round. As far as mowing and landscaping work, we only outsource because our 4plex is out of state, but I'd ask around to see what people ask for pricing. It might make life easier for you, which could be worth it. And they might be able to recommend good plants for the area. For curb appeal you could also maybe a sidewalk or stone path to the doors? I wouldn't put in a fence unless you have to. Looks like a great property! 

  • Saint Louis, MO · Member since 2020 · 40 posts · 14 votes
    6y

    @Colleen F. Thank you, I appreciate the response! I will definitely reach out to a few landscaping companies to see if they do work for investment properties.. I have seen quite a few properties (2-4units) that have literally zero effort put in and then I have seen a few others that almost seem like they would be impossible to maintain... trying to find a little balance between the two. Thanks again for your advice! 

  • Saint Louis, MO · Member since 2020 · 40 posts · 14 votes
    6y

    @Katarina Schuette Thanks for your thoughts. I definitely feel like a few bushes especially in the middle portion would go a long way even if weren't all that impressive. I have been thinking about side walks/paths to the other units, I think that's a great idea. I will have to look into how much it would cost - Appreciate the advice! 

  • Saint Louis, MO · Member since 2020 · 40 posts · 14 votes
    6y

    Any other thoughts on this guys? Do most people just stick with super simple bushes? I have decided I will not be asking my tenants to take care of the yard (per the existing lease they are being asked to do so.. they are nice people but as you can see they haven’t exactly been keeping up with it. I will likely go with a landscaping company but if its too expensive I may try to swing it. I know we are investors and not landscapers but I can’t help but take a little pride in my property. Anyone know ballpark numbers regarding what a little concrete side walk to my back units would cost me? I will get bids but just wondering your thoughts. Thanks again for the advice - probably just over thinking this! 

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