What would you do? Landscaping Backyard, B+ SFR, Northern CA

Hey guys. We are converting our residence into a rental within a year. The house is in a great neighborhood (Sacramento region) and will therefore attract some better tenants.

The back yard is a mess and needs to be dealt with. The area is too big to do straight rock and I don't really like the idea of an actual grass yard. It's been rare for us to find tenants that actually take care of a yards regardless of location.  

What would you guys do for a B+ property with a blank slate of a lager back yard? I'm happy to spend some time and money on it, but will not break the bank since its going to be a rental.

Also, if you want to share any actual design ideas, cost, pics that worked for you that would be an awesome. 

Thanks in advance for any input!