Why Landlords Should Think Carefully About How to Decorate a Rental Property
Decorating a rental property isn’t just about making it look nice; it’s a strategic investment.
Here’s why:
- Cost-effectiveness: Keeping decorating costs reasonable ensures you maintain good profit margins while still making the property attractive to tenants. However, that doesn’t mean doing it cheaply. As with most things cheap means poor (or lower) quality, and with a rental property that’s a false economy.
- Attracting Tenants Quickly: A stylish and well-maintained rental stands out in the market, reducing void periods and ensuring a steady income stream. The standard of decoration is a key indicator to tenants about how well a landlord looks after a property.
- Maximising Rental Income: Well-decorated properties can command higher rents. Tenants are often willing to pay more for a home that feels modern and welcoming.
- Minimising Maintenance and Redecoration Costs: Choosing the right paints and techniques, and just getting it done properly right at the start can reduce wear and tear, cutting down on frequent repainting expenses.
Now, let’s explore how to decorate your rental property in a way that enhances both appeal and profitability.
Stick to a Neutral Colour Palette
A neutral colour scheme is essential for rental properties. Shades like white, beige, and soft greys create a clean, modern feel that appeals to the widest range of tenants. Avoid bold or trendy colours that may alienate potential renters or require frequent repainting.
Magnolia has long been a staple in rental properties due to its affordability and easy availability. However, if it feels outdated, consider light off-whites or warm greys. These colours make rooms look more spacious and won’t clash with tenants’ furnishings.
Use Standard Colours for Easy Touch-Ups
Avoid custom-mixed or rare paint shades. Instead, choose readily available colours from major paint manufacturers. This makes it easier to perform touch-ups without having to repaint an entire room. Standard shades also save money, as these colours are often lower priced and bulk-buying paint is more cost-effective.
Use the Same Colour Throughout
Using a single colour throughout the property speeds up the decorating process and reduces costs. It allows you to buy paint in bulk, saving money, and ensures a consistent, fresh look. If one colour feels too monotonous, limit variations to no more than one additional colour per room.
Avoid Wallpaper – Stick to Paint
Wallpaper can look great but is rarely practical for rental properties. It’s more expensive to buy and apply than paint, and if it gets damaged, repairs are difficult and costly. The only exception is lining paper, which can be useful for covering cracks in older properties before painting.
Use Wipeable, Durable Paints
Rental properties experience more wear and tear than owner-occupied homes, so durability is key. Opt for:
- Washable, scuff-resistant paints to keep walls looking fresh with minimal maintenance.
- Soft sheen or mid-sheen paints in high-moisture areas like kitchens and bathrooms for easier cleaning and mould resistance.
- Mould-resistant paints in poorly ventilated spaces, especially bathrooms, to prevent long-term damage.
Consider Lining Paper for Cracked Walls
If your property is prone to cracking walls (common in older buildings), applying lining paper before painting can be a cost-effective way to create a smooth surface. This reduces the need for frequent repainting and helps maintain a well-kept appearance.
Plan a Regular Redecoration Schedule
Fair wear and tear is inevitable, and over time, walls will accumulate marks and scuffs. Instead of waiting for the property to look run-down, adopt a rolling redecoration plan:
- Refresh high-traffic areas (hallways, kitchens, bathrooms) every 2–3 years.
- Repaint full rooms on a 5-year cycle to keep the property looking well-maintained.
- Address minor touch-ups annually to extend the time between full redecoration.
Let Tenants Personalise – Within Reason
Happy tenants stay longer, reducing costly void periods. Consider allowing tenants to personalise the space by hanging pictures or even painting a wall (with prior approval). Just be clear that any modifications must be reversed before they leave—holes filled, and walls returned to their original colour.
Final Thoughts
When you decorate a rental property, focusing on painting and decorating choices that are cost-effective, durable, and widely appealing will help you attract and retain tenants. Think “Cost Effective” not Cheap. Cheap will not be cost effective.
By using neutral colours, durable paints, and a forward thinking approach to decoration maintenance, landlords can keep properties looking fresh with minimal expense.
A well-maintained rental property not only appeals to tenants but also protects your investment, ensuring long-term profitability.
Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. HomeForce Property Management (HFPM) makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information provided. While every effort has been made to ensure the content is up to date, regulations may change, and interpretations may vary. HFPM is not responsible for any errors, omissions, or actions taken based on this article. Readers are advised to seek independent legal or professional advice regarding their specific circumstances. Links to external websites are provided for convenience and do not imply endorsement or responsibility for their content.
