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

[Michael Wegner]

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! 

[Colleen F.]

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.