One of the most difficult tasks a landlord has when taking care of a rental property is keeping tenants happy while not overspending on maintenance. Legally, a landlord isn’t required to paint between tenants, but it does have benefits including higher rental rates between tenants. Whether you do the painting yourself or hire professional residential interior painters, we have a few answers to some of the most common questions in the rental market.

When Should I Paint My Rental Property?

If you’re trying to decide when to paint your rental property, take a look at your walls and determine if they’re in acceptable condition. Your walls should always remain in good condition, and if they aren’t, it’s best to repaint the interior. If your previous tenants had pets or were smokers, it’s a good idea to repaint your rental property before new tenants move in. You may also need to paint if you have stubborn grease stains in the kitchen. For smaller areas like scuffs or crayons, a Magic Eraser will usually get the job done.

Do I really Need to Paint?

You don’t need to paint before every new lease, but it can be helpful if you’re looking to increase your rental rates. Interior painting is one of the least expensive ways to update a property and improve the property value, which also increases the amount you can rent the property out for. It makes the home more appealing to potential tenants and can increase interest in your property. A good paint job will last several years, and tenants will be less likely to try to cover the walls themselves.

What Sheen Is Best For a Rental Property?

Having the right colour and finish for your rental property is important. Try to utilize a light neutral for a fresh, clean finish that goes well with most types of decor and highlights architectural features in the home. The finish should be easy to clean for your tenants. We’ll break down the different types of finishes available as well as their advantages and disadvantages.

Flat: A flat finish lacks shine but hides imperfections well. It’s easy to touch up but tends to scuff easily and may not be practical for a busy rental property.

Eggshell: An eggshell finish is a bit more durable and shinier than flat, but its more likely to show brush or roller marks if it’s not applied professionally.

Satin: A Satin finish is glossier than an eggshell finish and a flat finish, but not as shiny as a higher gloss finish. Because of it’s glossier finish, it can show brush and roller marks.

Semi-Gloss: A semi gloss finish holds up well to wear and tear and generally needs minimal touchups. It’s more subtle than high gloss but has a universal appeal.

High Gloss: A high gloss finish has a strong sheen that is easy to clean, stain resistant and doesn’t need many touchups, but can be a deterrent to some people who don’t like a glossy look to their walls.

Which Areas Should I Focus on?

Potential tenants will pay the most attention to the visual appearance of the kitchen and bathrooms which make them the most logical to repaint. Living areas and sleeping areas generally get covered with wall decor making the paint less noticeable and generally see less wear and tear than kitchens and bathrooms.

Are you looking to update your rental property, increase property value and increase your rental rates? Get in touch with our team to discuss your project and get a free, no obligation estimate today.