How do you tenant proof your property?

Question

I am currently looking for my first multi family property. Looking  for something in a good neighborhood that needs rehab work. I am wondering what other landlords do to "tenant proof" their units. For instance, what type of flooring do you prefer. What appliances do you supply. Also do you use one neutral color for the whole unit or do a couple different colors? Thanks for the help!

Tim Lindstrom · Answer

There are several threads already on this same subject.  Here is one I bookmarked a while back, because it is full of interesting ideas...

https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/52/topics/680...

JD Martin · Answer

Flooring: Laminate if it has to be replaced; hardwood if it's already there. Floating vinyl for kitchen/bath areas unless there's already ceramic tile there.

Neutral colors, have done the "one color everywhere" deal but don't find it any cheaper or easier; satin or similar in kitchens & bathrooms, flat or eggshell everywhere else.

Appliances: dishwasher, stove, refrigerator. Pull all garbage disposals and ice maker connections as these will be the bane of your existence.

Window coverings: inexpensive mini-blinds, toss and replace when tenants leave if damaged. Reasonably easy to clean and you can reuse the same brackets.

Locks: I keep old locks and reuse them in different units (I change locks after each tenant). This saves money and gives the unit a fresh start from the previous tenant.

Landscaping: grass as much as possible. Planting beds will become weed-infested in no time if not actively managed, and they usually aren't by tenants.

Avoid products, materials, features that are one-off, rare, precious, difficult to repair or maintain, easily damaged by normal wear and tear, holds odors or filth. I pull all carpets, remove or cover wallpaper.

Ryan Leshinski · Answer

Thank you @Jd Martin and @Tim Lindstrom I will check that out!