All Forum Posts by: Kayla Thorp

I'd recommend checking out the local REIA for recommendations. Also, I can connect you to a contractor I know locally, send me a message.

Hey Ethan, as a property manager in Rochester I would definitely not call the market scorching hot right now. Several months ago it was, the last few months not so much. Agents are talking about whether or not to continue using delayed negotiations, whether we can still expect to see properties bid up above asking, etc. We're seeing longer days on markets and more opportunities popping up for investors. Given all of this,  it would not be a red flag for me barring some other sign of an issue. Feel free to reach out if you want a property manager's take on the property as a rental. 

As a Rochester NY property management company, we see landlords waste thousands on upgrades that don't deliver returns. The key to successful property management in Rochester NY? Focus on improvements that attract quality tenants, justify higher rents, and survive use and abuse for the long haul.Our Rochester property management experts have identified the rental property upgrades that consistently pay off in Rochester's competitive market.

Rochester NY rental properties face unique challenges – from brutal winters that test materials to a competitive market where property management companies must help landlords stand out. The best rental property improvements aren't about luxury – they're about durability, functionality, and tenant satisfaction.As a property management company in Rochester NY, we know successful upgrades serve three purposes: attract tenants, support higher rents, and reduce maintenance costs.

Durable Laminate Countertops Skip expensive granite that chips, stains, and requires ongoing maintenance. Modern laminate countertops offer the high-end look Rochester tenants want without maintenance headaches. Property management companies in Rochester NY recommend laminate because it's virtually indestructible and affordable to replace.Mid-Range Appliances That Last Property management companies in Rochester NY recommend mid-range appliance packages from Whirlpool, Frigidaire and GE. These offer reliability Rochester landlords need with modern features tenants expect. Be sure to choose appliances from a line with readily available repair parts to avoid replacing appliances where a minor repair could have been performed with the right parts.

Luxury Vinyl Plank: The Property Management Standard Rochester property management companies generally recommend luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring. These floors handle Rochester's temperature swings, resist water damage, and maintain appearance despite heavy use. Install throughout main areas for consistency Rochester renters love.Why Rochester Property Management Avoids Carpet Carpet creates ongoing maintenance nightmares in Rochester's climate and can require frequent professional cleaning and replacement between tenants. Property management companies eliminate carpet to reduce turnover costs and support higher rents in Rochester's competitive market.

Solid Surface Shower Surrounds Rochester property management companies recommend solid surface surrounds over tile. Sterling and Delta surrounds eliminate grout maintenance while providing the modern look Rochester tenants expect. This upgrade dramatically reduces bathroom maintenance calls.Quality Fixtures with Smart Finishes Choose mid-range fixtures with brushed nickel, black, or chrome finishes. These hide water spots and wear better than trendy options, reducing maintenance issues property management companies in Rochester NY work to minimize.Powerful Exhaust Fans Rochester's climate makes exhaust fans essential for preventing mold damage. Property management companies know poor ventilation leads to expensive remediation costs and tenant complaints.

Bulbed fixtures over LED Rochester property management companies recommend standardized light fixtures with bulbs over LED. Bulbs are the tenant responsibility, not the landlords. And when a bulb dies, it’s a $2 problem for the tenant, or worst case, the owner on a routine inspection to improve quality of life instead of a $40 fixture + the labor to install, turning a $2 bulb into a $100+ repair! This upgrade dramatically reduces maintenance calls & costs.

Before upgrading, Rochester property management companies calculate real returns. A $3,000 kitchen upgrade supporting $50 higher monthly rent pays for itself in five years. Focus on improvements that reduce property management maintenance costs or support meaningful rent increases. The other calculation, is one of maintenance avoidance. Installing a $3000 kitchen floor one time and it lasting 8 years, is much better than a $1500 floor you install 3 times over the same time period.

Successful property management in Rochester NY requires strategic thinking about improvements; Create functional, attractive homes that command solid rents while minimizing maintenance calls.Rochester property management companies know the best upgrade is one you don't redo in two years. Choose durability over beauty, function over fashion, proven solutions over trends.

Nancy, I'm a property manager in Rochester, the market here has definitely been shifting recently. Happy to connect you to an agent that we prefer to work with or chat about investing here if you'd like to connect.