When to repaint a rental property is a common question for landlords and property managers. A high-quality paint job can last for several years under ideal conditions. Repainting your rental property every few years will help maintain your property’s value and improve your tenants’ satisfaction.
4 Reasons to Repaint Your Rental Property
1. To Attract New Renters
A fresh coat of paint is a relatively quick and inexpensive way to update an apartment, condo, or office space. Many owners repaint their properties to look their best and attract the best applicants. When it’s time to find qualified renters, a fresh coat of paint will make your property look newer and brighter than the competition.
2. To Improve Your Bottom Line
The cost of repainting may feel expensive, but if tenants are avoiding your property because of old or outdated paint, an update may be needed. A fresh coat of paint improves the chances that your property will rent quickly, and it also allows you to raise the monthly rental price to be more competitive with similar properties.
3. To Remove Stains and Damage
Repainting is essential if there is significant damage. If you have tenants moving in and out frequently, damage can quickly add up. Scratches, holes, stains, and general wear and tear take a toll on painted surfaces. Painting can also help eliminate nicotine smells and yellow discoloration if former tenants smoked or vaped indoors.
4. To Keep Long-Term Tenants Happy
Repainting is an affordable investment in maintaining happy, long-term tenants. A fresh coat of paint signals to renters that the landlord appreciates them and is committed to maintaining an attractive property. You may only need to repaint a rental property every 4-5 years if you have long-term tenants.
Is It Time to Repaint Your Rental Property?
How long a paint job lasts will depend on each tenant and how they treat it. It also depends on the quality of the paint and how well it was applied. Even with the best care and maintenance, repainting will be necessary at some point. After a tenant moves out, look carefully at the walls to determine if a new paint job is needed. Repainting at least every two to five years is generally required to keep a rental property in top condition.
When It’s Time to Repaint Your Rental Property
When it’s time to repaint, choosing the right paint products is essential. Consider the following factors:
Paint Colors
Landlords typically stick to a neutral color palette, but that doesn’t mean everything has to be painted white. Stark white paint is too harsh and generally unappealing to most renters. Neutral colors, such as beige, light gray, or creamy white, provide a background that complements most tenants’ decorating preferences and will appeal to more potential renters.
Durability
Most interior paint will last between five and ten years. Durability depends on the paint’s type and quality, location, the quality of the paint job, and the amount of wear and tear the walls experience. Choosing a better quality paint will decrease the number of coats needed, last longer, and require less maintenance – saving you money in the long run.
Paint Finish
Durability is also affected by the paint finish. Choose a paint finish that will hide wear and dirt and be easy to clean. Here is a brief overview of paint finishes and where they work best:
Flat/Matte: With no shine, this finish is easily scuffed and can be challenging to keep clean. It works best in low-traffic areas like bedrooms.
Eggshell: This no-shine finish is forgiving and hides bumps and imperfections better than flat or matte paints. Eggshell works well in living rooms, dining rooms, and office spaces.
Satin: This finish is ideal for high-traffic areas, including children’s bedrooms, hallways, family rooms, and busy office settings. Satin is washable, durable, and holds up well in rental properties.
Semi-Gloss: This finish has more shine and is perfect for areas with a lot of moisture, like bathrooms and kitchens. It’s also used on trim and cabinetry.
High Gloss: This finish is durable, easy to clean, and dries to a shiny finish that reflects light. High gloss paints are used for trim, doors, and cabinets.
Is Hiring A Professional Painter Worth the Money?
Unless you have a lot of experience painting, it’s best to hire a professional paint contractor to care for your rental properties. A professional paint job will achieve better results and be completed quickly and efficiently. A high-quality paint applied by a professional will last five years or longer under normal circumstances making it a wise investment for property owners.
Choose the Local Commercial Painting Experts
When it’s time to update your rental properties, call Adam Roe Painting at (208) 306-4240 or contact us online to discuss your needs. In business since 1985, our team of painting professionals has helped hundreds of business owners keep their buildings painted.
Adam Roe Painting provides professional painting services for commercial buildings and facilities. We offer custom color matching, a residential exterior warranty of 5 years, and a one-year warranty on commercial and industrial projects. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded for your protection.
