How to Boost Your Apartment Complex's Curb Appeal

Curb appeal is a term you often hear in real estate and homeownership, though it’s relevant to apartment buildings. Boosting the curb appeal of an apartment can make it more attractive for prospective renters and lead to more demand.

What is Curb Appeal for Apartment Complexes

The idea of curb appeal is to convert and attract new buyers. It's also a way to bring more enjoyment and pride to your property. But curb appeal can also help apartment complexes attract and keep new renters.

Focus on making a positive first impression on prospective renters with curb appeal. The first thing an apartment renter sees is the exterior of the building. If they think your building is outdated, old, or it leaves a less than enthusiastic impression, they’ll likely move on to the next complex.

Why Does Curb Appeal Matter?

Beyond the first impression of your apartment building, curb appeal can lead to higher demand from renters. In some markets, good curb appeal leads to higher rental prices.

Dated apartment buildings and units aren't likely to inspire renters to resign their lease. They will simply move on if they find a nicer building with competitive rent.

When you neglect your property, you increase competition. Renters mulling over multiple options may disregard a property that doesn't look desirable from the outside.

Boosting your Apartment Complex's Curb Appeal

Curb appeal is an essential part of attracting, converting, and retaining quality renters. However, you might not need to run out and spend tons of money to achieve it.

Instead, pick and choose projects that make an immediate impact on the appearance of your rental property that aligns with your budget. Here are some ideas to get started.

Ensure Landscaping is Properly Maintained

Start your curb appeal improvements by keeping those lawns and green areas appealing! Add bright, vibrant flowers and manicure the grounds. A pergola or bench can bring your apartment complex and rental houses to life for an eye-catching first impression.

If you have the resources, plant a new garden or build a sitting area to enhance your outdoor space or front yard. Plants are a nice touch to a porch or covered the place where tenants can gather.

Invest in a Fresh Paint Job

Whether inside or outside, chipped and faded paint gives the impression you don't care about your rental property. A fresh paint job keeps the colors of your apartment building exterior popping.

A simple touch-up may be all it takes, though invest in a complete repainting of your exterior. Don't be afraid to make your complex stand out with bold colors to leave a long-lasting impression and edge out the competition.

Keep Your Top Amenities Well-Maintained

If your property boasts fantastic amenities that are a big draw for renters, keep them well-maintained and at the forefront.

Pools should be sparkling and on-site gyms should undergo regular cleaning and equipment kept up-to-date and functional. Keep windows clean and looking their best. Make sure any amenities near the front of the building and anything the renters see are looking great.

Make the Leasing Office Pop

Step into the shoes of a renter and think about the first things they'll see and do when viewing your property. The leasing office is among the first places renters will see and visit, which is why you should make sure your rental office is as welcoming as possible by freshening up the furniture and enhancing the natural light. Adding a few lamps, swapping out the window treatments, and bringing in plants also helps brighten up your space.

Select upbeat music for prospective renters and display dog treats for pet-friendly properties. Keep your office stocked with coffee and snacks, or include a vending machine so prospective renters can recharge on their property tour.

Pressure Wash and Clean Your Exterior

Splurging on a pressure wash for your building, walkways, and parking areas is worth the investment. A professional service can go a long way to make your complex look younger than its years.

Although pressure washing your apartment complex won't fix cracks and peeling paint, it can diminish the appearance of stains and discoloration from weather and age.

Explore Adding Curb Appeal-Related Lease Policies

Curb appeal can also extend to an apartment lease to involve renters in keeping things looking tidy and pleasant. Ask renters to keep trash off balconies, patios, or outside their front doors. Requiring visible spaces to stay clear of clutter also helps keep hallways looking fresh.

Consider the Lighting

Remember to consider the curb appeal of your property at night. When prospective renters drive by to check out the complex at night, how do you want them to see the building? Make sure it's well-lit to show that it's safe and a reassuring place to come home at night.

Indoor and outdoor walkways should also feature bright lighting to make renters feel at ease. Motion lights are also helpful in areas of the property near trash bins and shared amenities.

Whether night or day, renters notice poor or uncomfortable lighting. Replace old bubs and choose lighting that keeps your property well-lit without feeling harsh. Switching to LED bulbs lasts longer and also shows prospective renters you care about using sustainable products.

Look at Your Parking Area with a Critical Eye

Depending on your market, parking can be a win for renters. You can also improve your parking's curb appeal by refreshing any painted lines, pressure washing the area, and ensuring the lighting is in working order.

Update Your Apartment Marketing Photos

Now that your curb appeal is looking its best, it's time to update your apartment marketing photos. Print new flyers, update your website, refresh your apartment vacancy listings, and ensure your social media reflects the latest and greatest.

Create New Apartment Video Tours

While virtual tours became the norm during the pandemic, they are still valuable for attracting renters with busy careers or relocating from out of state. Shoot new video tours that reflect your curb appeal updates and showcase your new and improved apartment building.

Final Thoughts

Apartment complex curb appeal creates a greater sense of pride for both you and your tenants. Invest a little time and resources into a refresh and keep your apartment vacancies low and tenants’ satisfaction high.