If your Virginia Beach rental property has a porch or patio, you may be thinking about buying furniture for it. After all, a fabulous outdoor space can add a lot to a rental home’s curb appeal. But before you go out and get furniture, there are several things you need to consider carefully. Every rental property is different, and so there is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether outdoor furniture is the right choice for you and your tenants. That is why it’s essential to consider all of the potential benefits and drawbacks before purchasing outdoor furniture to your tenants.
The first thing to consider is how long patio furniture might last. Before spending money on anything for your rental home, it is essential to determine whether that investment will pay for itself. Part of that measurement is figuring out the life expectancy of any outdoor furniture you want to buy. Unlike other elements of your investment property, there is no one number you can use.
The lifespan of your outdoor furniture depends on the quality of your materials, construction, daily wear, and maintenance. Higher-quality furniture will probably last longer than cheaper items, but heavy use could shorten the life of any outdoor furniture. Furthermore, if your tenant never covers or cares for the furniture, dirt, rust, or sun, rain, or snow exposure could eventually turn that beautiful outdoor chair or table into an eyesore.
Another critical thing to understand when buying outdoor furniture for your Virginia Beach rental property is whether the backyard and your property’s location is suited for it. Trying to fill a small patio or porch with large furniture is not suitable, as well as putting very small pieces in a large space. Either one might make your property’s outdoor spaces look uncomfortable, rather than inviting.
It is also necessary to consider how your tenants use the space, your landscape design, and what types of outdoor furniture would best compliment the house. Certain materials may not last long in some climates, while others are an injury lawsuit waiting to happen. For instance, metal furniture can get very hot in the sun and cause serious burns in warmer climates, especially during the summer.
When choosing outdoor furniture, it’s also necessary to consider the question from your tenant’s perspective. Some tenants may already have a patio and other outdoor equipment, so they may not be keen on the furniture you have. It may generate a whole new list of issues, including where to store the unused furniture.
Otherwise, if you don’t provide outdoor furniture, your tenants might decide to “decorate” the porch or patio with furniture that is not designed for outdoor use. Placing a sofa or other unsuitable furniture outside of your rental home could instantly transform into a significant issue. Not only will the fabric invite bugs, rodents, and mold, it will also start to look and smell terrible in a short amount of time. When you have already set up your outdoor furniture, you greatly reduce the chances that your tenant will add unsuitable furniture by themselves.
At last, buying outdoor furniture for your Virginia Beach rental property is a decision only you can make. But with the appropriate information and some diligent studying, you can more easily determine which route will succeed for your investment properties.
Looking for more advice, or even someone to manage your rental? Reach out to Real Property Management Hampton Roads! Contact us online or call us at 757-395-4274 today.
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