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karina 
Updated on January 11, 2024 
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Hopefully, where you live, the time for spring cleaning is upon you. In many parts of the US, the weather’s still cold even though it is March. However, as the weeks go by, you will find that the “property” aspect of property management becomes key during this time of year.
You may be looking to move some dead tree limbs, get rid of leaves and other debris, aerate your lawns, and plant flowers following the winter’s aftermath. The interiors of your rental units can also benefit from a fresh start for the new season. Everything can be daunting, so where do you begin?
Prioritize Tasks
Of course, you’re going to start with the units you manage, but you should never underestimate the importance of good landscaping as well. Balancing both can be a pain if you’re not organized about it. So if you’re a landlord or property manager looking for a much more efficient way to do your spring cleaning, you’ve come to the right place.
Possibly the first and best thing that you should do before you start spring cleaning is to prioritize. Draft a cleaning and maintenance plan and use your web based property management software to schedule and track tasks as they happen.
Check out warranties
First on your list should be keeping up with the warranties you may be running out of time on in terms of your appliances. From where you sit, you can also schedule your carpet cleanings and window washings—be sure to notify your residents and also record each date of service.
Be a step ahead
Spring is also the best time to inspect your air conditioning units. Do it before you really need them, which will help you to avoid expensive emergency fixes later. If you do a little research, you will find that the rates for getting them serviced in spring are less expensive than they will be in the summer months. Spring is also a great time to power wash or take care of other exterior issues just to spruce things up a bit.
Organize a community garage sale
One great idea during the spring months is to organize a community garage sale for your residents. You can have both employees and residents involved. Not only will this help them de-clutter stuff in their own spring cleaning, but you can also use it for charity or just a way for community building amongst those in your apartments.
Great Outdoor Ideas Beyond Landscaping
We’ve already gone into what you can do indoors, but what about landscaping and exterior upgrades that you can do during spring? Have you thought about the outdoor amenities that might also both benefit your tenants but also, bring in more?
Each year, the American Society of Landscape Architects conduct an annual survey to find out what respondents believe is important in terms of landscaping. The results, which have been consistent through the years, might surprise you.
Community gardens
High-end residential landscaping did not really matter much to people. Instead, those polled revealed that the idea of having small community gardens was a more welcome option. A couple of courtyard gardens, or even just window boxes that enable residents to grow small edible plants resolves that landscaping dilemma easily. This also brings together two great things: improved quality of life for your tenants and lower overall landscaping bills for you.
Outdoor lighting
Well, as you might guess, one of the biggest things that people look for in their outdoor spaces is lighting. Outdoor lighting in apartment complexes not only create a nice ambiance, but it also helps with security. Of everyone surveyed, 95% said that this was a very important trait.
This is one area that you really don’t have to break the bank when it comes to powering, either. Recent innovations in solar powered light sources with timers have been amazing and in addition to being a tax break, will save you money with their use.
Fire pits & grills
Another area where nearly everyone surveyed agrees with is the availability of grills and recreational areas for cooking and gathering. Outdoor kitchens and spaces that are conducive to having summer time gatherings were a big draw to people. Outdoor seating was another draw, so, it may benefit you to consider a couple of grills, fire pits, or outdoor fireplaces complete with picnic areas to help finish the ensemble.
Though most people expect to see them, only about 76% of those polled really cared about having tennis courts, pools, and other recreational facilities available. Instead, they seemed to favor properly weatherized chairs and access to outdoor cooking facilities.
Final Thoughts
Spring cleaning and landscaping can significantly improve the property’s curb appeal, making it more attractive to potential tenants. A property that is well-maintained and visually appealing creates a positive first impression, tends to command higher rental prices, and increases the chances of finding quality renters quickly.
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