Make or Break Features in Pittsburgh Rentals

[Randy Hunter]

I'm aware of Pittsburgh's vast differences in the real estate market from suburb to suburb, neighborhood to neighborhood, and street to street in some cases. But, in general, are there characteristics of a rental property that can make or break a good deal? Are there things to absolutely avoid if at all possible that could be somewhat common in Pittsburgh? Obviously people are attracted to brand new bathrooms and granite countertops but are there any other things to be aware of that have caused you to have a hard time, or a really easy time, getting tenants in your properties? 

[Anthony Angotti]

Originally posted by @Randy Hunter:

@Jeremy Taggart @Anthony Angotti

Thanks for your lists. A few of those I definitely hadn't considered. Parking in general seems to be a big one and actually was the reason I asked this question. I had found what appeared to be a pretty solid property in every other way but looking on google maps/street views I actually could not see a good parking situation, no matter how I looked at it, and so I kind of checked it off. I know no place will be 100% perfect but I don't want to overlook something obvious on my first property.

What about heating/air conditioning? I know Pittsburgh is full of old homes that have radiators and/or have just never been updated with central air. This was a deal breaker for us when buying our own home but how much do renters care about having central A/C?

 Depends if the area typically have radiant heat or forced air. Some neighborhoods have mostly boilers so it doesn't matter. 

A/C rarely matters as much but you always just have to be looking at and considering the competing rentals in the area have. That's the name of the game. Depends on what the market is. You should never over or under improve.