What Should I Do if My House Won’t Sell?
August 01, 2025
Key Takeaways
- Curb Appeal is a Powerful Marketing Tool – The exterior of a rental property sets the tone for prospective tenants, often shaping their first and lasting impression. A well-kept exterior can attract more interest, reduce vacancy time, and enhance perceived property value.
- Small, Affordable Updates Make a Big Impact – Simple changes like fresh paint, greenery, lighting, or front door upgrades can transform a property’s exterior without requiring a major budget, signaling care and professionalism to potential renters.
- Consistent Upkeep Protects Value and Satisfaction – Regular landscaping, cleaning, and maintenance not only keep the property visually appealing but also build tenant pride, improve safety, and reduce long-term repair costs, supporting stronger tenant retention.
While a well-designed interior is crucial for tenant satisfaction, it’s often the exterior of your rental that creates the first and most lasting impression. Curb appeal plays a strategic role in attracting prospective renters, and if overlooked, it could mean missed opportunities.
Fortunately, improving your property’s exterior charm doesn’t have to be a major expense. We at Rent in Ottawa Property Management have put together some practical and impactful ways to elevate your rental’s curb appeal.
Introduce a Pop of Color
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to freshen up your property’s appearance is by incorporating a vibrant, eye-catching color. Whether it’s through repainting the mailbox, planters, or outdoor seating, a thoughtful splash of color can set your rental apart from others in the neighborhood.
Opt for shades that are cheerful yet tasteful. A refined, lively hue can refresh the overall look while maintaining wide appeal. For an extra touch of charm, consider adding colorful flowering plants to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Add Lush, Low-Maintenance Greenery
A calm, natural environment is universally appealing. Enrich your rental’s exterior with well-maintained greenery. Trim overgrown bushes, remove weeds, revive dry patches of grass, and plant low-maintenance shrubs or ornamental grasses.
Consistency is key. Regular lawn care and pruning will keep the space looking neat and alive. If your schedule doesn’t allow for hands-on upkeep, hiring a landscaper can be a worthwhile investment. Just be mindful to select low-maintenance plants, especially if your target tenants who may not have time to care for elaborate landscaping.
Illuminate with Purpose
Strategic outdoor lighting not only enhances the beauty of your rental at night but also improves safety and security, which are both top priorities for prospective tenants. Well-placed lights can highlight architectural features or landscape elements while also deterring unwanted visitors.
Stay on Top of Landscaping Maintenance
A property with wilting plants or a weed-infested lawn can quickly lose its appeal. Whether you handle it yourself or hire help, maintaining a tidy and healthy yard signals to potential renters that the property is well cared for.
Regular attention also discourages loitering and vandalism, even when the unit is vacant, by giving showing that the space is actively managed.
Refresh with a New Coat of Paint
Over time, rental properties begin to show signs of wear. A fresh coat of paint can dramatically transform an exterior and signal that the unit is updated and ready for new tenants.
While repainting may require some upfront cost, it pays off by attracting more interest and positioning your property as higher-value. But avoid cutting corners. Professional painting tends to yield cleaner results and can help avoid costly touch-ups later. Quality paint and workmanship also last longer, making the investment more worthwhile.
Upgrade or Revitalize the Front Door
Your front door acts as the focal point of your property’s exterior, and if it looks neglected, it can undercut all your other curb appeal efforts. If the door is in good shape, a fresh coat of paint may be all that’s needed. But if it shows signs of damage or has outdated hardware, it might be time for an upgrade.
A well-maintained, secure, and visually appealing front door not only adds to your property’s aesthetic but also reinforces a sense of safety, which is a key concern for most renters.
Schedule Regular Cleaning
Even with beautiful landscaping and stylish design choices, dirt and clutter can ruin the overall impression. Consistent exterior cleaning should be part of your maintenance routine.
Power washing sidewalks and driveways, clearing away cobwebs, sweeping porches, and keeping trash areas tidy can make a significant difference. During property tours, cleanliness sends a strong signal that you’re attentive and professional.
Inspect and Maintain the Roof
Your roof might not be the first thing potential renters notice, but it can certainly leave a lasting impression, especially if there are visible issues like missing shingles, moss growth, or sagging gutters. A well-maintained roof boosts the property's visual appeal and helps prevent water damage and other maintenance problems.
Using durable materials and scheduling periodic inspections can reduce emergency repair requests and support long-term value.
Add Functional Outdoor Seating
Creating a small outdoor seating area can enhance the property's livability and visual appeal. Tenants appreciate usable outdoor space where they can relax, read, or enjoy a morning coffee.
Even a simple bench, a couple of chairs with cushions, or a small bistro set can signal hospitality and thoughtful design. Make sure the seating is weather-resistant and blends well with the rest of the property’s aesthetics.
Bottom Line
Boosting your rental property’s curb appeal isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s a smart marketing strategy. A well-kept exterior creates an emotional connection with potential renters, encouraging them to imagine living there. It can also foster pride and satisfaction among current tenants, increasing the likelihood of long-term occupancy.
Importantly, curb appeal upgrades don’t need to be costly. With thoughtful planning and a little effort, you can make impactful changes that generate real results. And if time or resources are limited, partnering with a trusted property management company can ease the burden.
At Rent in Ottawa Property Management, we don’t just help fill vacancies, we keep your property in top condition, collect rent on time, and provide seamless solutions for property owners.
