popcorn ceiling

[Joshua Hill]

I just bought a duplex and I was thinking of removing the popcorn ceiling. Is this too much of hassle? It is probably not worth messing with a tennant probably wouldnt care too much about it. Maybe however this little detail would make the place more desirable to rent out? Any opinions about this?

Also what is the best way to remove this crap if I decide to do it?

[N/A N/A]

Originally posted by "MikeOH":

Operating rental properties is ALL about the numbers (money).

I don't fully agree with this statement. The most successful landlord I know in town insists that his properties always look a little nicer than comparable rentals in the area. He then charges market rent (not above market rent). By having his rentals appear to be the "best deal" to prospective tenants he gets a lot of benefits that don't show up easily in the "numbers:"

1. His properties rent more quickly because of the higher demand.
2. Current tenants often refer friends and he frequently has people waiting for one of his properties to open.
3. Tenants stay longer, which reduces his turn-over costs.
4. Because the higher demand allows him to be more selective, he gets a higher quality tenant. That can often translate into less damage and fewer hassles collecting rent.

He's a smart guy and is great at getting "nice" things without paying a high price, and I believe him when he says that small "extras" in home can make a big difference.