Need help adding tenant value to turnkey property
Erin SchaeferPro Member
Investor · Richmond, VA · Member since 2025 · 3 posts · 2 votesI'm purchasing my first rental property - this is a long-term equity play not cash-flow heavy by any means... I'm trying to find creative ways to provide added value for tenants to get the highest possible rent for the area. I'm not being unrealistic with my projections but would like to set my property apart from other rental units and make it a better living experience for the tenants.
This property has granite, updated kitchen, bathrooms, etc. It's in an HOA so there are limitations to the exterior.
Initial ideas I had:
- update fans to modern design
- update wall outlets to usb near beds/kitchen etc.
- paint patch walls through out
All suggestions are welcome. We are going to market it as a LTR and/or furnished MTR (it's very close to 2 hospitals)...
Thanks in advance
The property location will have the biggest impact on rent and appreciation.
Erin, congrats on the first rental — and honestly, you’re already thinking about this the right way. When a deal is more of an equity play than a cash-flow machine, the tenant experience becomes your competitive advantage, especially in HOA communities where you can't do much outside.
A few things that tend to move the needle for renters without blowing your budget:
1. Lighting and fans matter more than people think.
Swapping in modern, quiet ceiling fans and warm LED fixtures instantly makes a place feel higher-end. Cheap upgrade, big perceived value.
2. Smart home touches go a long way.
You don't need a full smart home setup. Even just a smart thermostat (if HOA allows) and a smart lock on the front door make the place feel more "premium" and attract better tenants, especially mid-term renters.
3. USB/USB-C outlets — great idea.
Tenants absolutely notice these, especially near the bed and kitchen. Small upgrade, makes the unit feel newer.
4. Deep cleaning + fresh paint touch-ups.
People underestimate how much cleaner walls and crisp trim help the unit photograph better — and better photos = higher rent.
5. Add lifestyle value, not just fixtures.
Since you’re near two hospitals, think about what those renters specifically value:
blackout shades in bedrooms
a quiet, comfortable workspace
a simple “starter kit” of essentials for MTR (good mattress, desk lamp, fast WiFi if you furnish)
These don’t cost much but make your unit the obvious pick for a traveling nurse over a generic rental.
6. Storage wins tenants.
If the HOA limits exterior changes, look inside:
add closet shelving systems
add hooks/organization in laundry or entry area
over-toilet storage in bathrooms
People LOVE units that feel more functional.
7. If you furnish for MTR, keep it clean and durable.
A comfortable couch, a good bed, simple decor — nothing crazy. Think “hotel-clean, home-comfortable.”
You’re basically doing what most landlords should do: small, thoughtful improvements that make the tenant actually want to stay longer and pay a little more. Erin, I really hope this helps you a bit, I sent you DM on BP... it's one of the reasons I do this. I hope you can assist, thank you in advance.
Erin, congrats on the first rental — and honestly, you’re already thinking about this the right way. When a deal is more of an equity play than a cash-flow machine, the tenant experience becomes your competitive advantage, especially in HOA communities where you can't do much outside.
A few things that tend to move the needle for renters without blowing your budget:
1. Lighting and fans matter more than people think.
Swapping in modern, quiet ceiling fans and warm LED fixtures instantly makes a place feel higher-end. Cheap upgrade, big perceived value.
2. Smart home touches go a long way.
You don't need a full smart home setup. Even just a smart thermostat (if HOA allows) and a smart lock on the front door make the place feel more "premium" and attract better tenants, especially mid-term renters.
3. USB/USB-C outlets — great idea.
Tenants absolutely notice these, especially near the bed and kitchen. Small upgrade, makes the unit feel newer.
4. Deep cleaning + fresh paint touch-ups.
People underestimate how much cleaner walls and crisp trim help the unit photograph better — and better photos = higher rent.
5. Add lifestyle value, not just fixtures.
Since you’re near two hospitals, think about what those renters specifically value:
blackout shades in bedrooms
a quiet, comfortable workspace
a simple “starter kit” of essentials for MTR (good mattress, desk lamp, fast WiFi if you furnish)
These don’t cost much but make your unit the obvious pick for a traveling nurse over a generic rental.
6. Storage wins tenants.
If the HOA limits exterior changes, look inside:
add closet shelving systems
add hooks/organization in laundry or entry area
over-toilet storage in bathrooms
People LOVE units that feel more functional.
7. If you furnish for MTR, keep it clean and durable.
A comfortable couch, a good bed, simple decor — nothing crazy. Think “hotel-clean, home-comfortable.”
You’re basically doing what most landlords should do: small, thoughtful improvements that make the tenant actually want to stay longer and pay a little more. Erin, I really hope this helps you a bit, I sent you DM on BP... it's one of the reasons I do this. I hope you can assist, thank you in advance.
Thanks Ricardo! I had a similar question and this response does a great job at answering it
The property location will have the biggest impact on rent and appreciation.
The property location will have the biggest impact on rent and appreciation. If it's in an undesirable area, none of the upgrades will matter.