Congratulations, landlords of Ann Arbor, Michigan!

You've got yourself some sweet rental properties, but let's be real - some of them could use a little love on the outside.

We’ll cover the top 10 best ways to paint over electrical outlets in a later post; we're focusing on the outside right now.

With spring in full bloom and summer fast approaching, now is the perfect time to spruce up your rental properties to attract high-quality tenants.

So, without further ado, here are the top four exterior design elements that can significantly improve a home's curb appeal in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

A Fresh Coat of Paint

First things first, let's talk about the easiest and most impactful way to give your rental property a facelift - a fresh coat of paint.

I mean, who doesn't love a good paint job?

Not only will it make your property stand out from the rest, but it will also protect it from the harsh Michigan weather.

Plus, you can use this opportunity to incorporate some trendy colors that will catch potential tenants' eyes.

Choosing the Right Color

When it comes to choosing a color, you want to go for something that complements the style of your rental property and the surrounding neighborhood.

Stick to neutral colors like beige, gray, or white, as they tend to appeal to a wider range of people.

That being said, don't be afraid to add a pop of color to the front door or shutters for some added personality.

Don't Skimp on Quality

Now, I know what you're thinking - "I can just grab a can of paint from the hardware store and do it myself."

Sure, you could do that, but do you really want to risk having a shoddy paint job that will need to be redone in a year or two?

Invest in a professional paint job and use high-quality paint to ensure your property looks its best for years to come.

Landscaping

Next up, let's talk landscaping. 

Front, back, side, or court, whatever kind of yard you’re working with, can make a huge impact on the overall experience of your tenants.

A well-manicured lawn and some strategically placed shrubs and flowers can take your rental property from drab to fab in no time.

Keep it Simple

When it comes to landscaping, less is often more.

Stick to simple and low-maintenance plants that can withstand Michigan's ever-changing weather.

Native plants like coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and Sedums are great options that require minimal upkeep.

Hire a Professional

If you're not much of a green thumb, don't fret.

Plenty of landscaping companies in Ann Arbor can help you create a beautiful outdoor space that will make your rental property stand out from the rest.

Hiring a professional ensures that the job is done right the first time.

Lighting

Now, let's talk about lighting. 

A well-lit exterior looks great and adds an extra layer of security for your tenants. 

Just remember to deal with the breaker box beforehand, or you’ll end up the lord of a pine box.

Keep it Consistent

When choosing lighting fixtures, it's important to keep it consistent throughout the entire property.

Stick to one style of fixture and make sure that all of the bulbs are the same color temperature.

This creates a cohesive look that will make your rental property appear more polished.

Highlight the Important Areas

Strategically placed lighting can also draw attention to important areas of your property, like the front door or walkway.

You can also install lights pointing upwards to highlight trees or other landscaping features you want to showcase.

Windows and Doors

Last but not least, windows and doors.

These are often overlooked, but they make a big difference in the overall appearance of your rental property.

And no, painting them shut doesn’t count as an upgrade.

Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows

Not only will energy-efficient windows save your tenants money on their utility bills, but they also look great and can increase the value of your rental property.

Double-paned windows are popular in Michigan for providing extra insulation during the cold winter months.

Add Some Personality to the Front Door

Your front door is the first thing that potential tenants will see when they visit your rental property, so why not make it memorable?

A bold and colorful front door adds a lot of personality to a plain exterior.

Plus, it's a relatively low-cost upgrade that makes a huge impact.

In conclusion, if you're a landlord in Ann Arbor, there's no excuse for having a lackluster rental property.

You can significantly improve your rental property's curb appeal by incorporating these top four exterior design elements - a fresh coat of paint, landscaping, lighting, and windows and doors.

So, what are you waiting for?

It's time to get out there and make your rental properties shine.

For a free quote or consultation, contact the best in the biz!