Upgrading Your Outdoor Space: Expert Tips for Landlords & Tenants in Brisbane
As the days start to heat up in Brisbane with Spring just around the corner, people are eagerly looking forward to spending more time outdoors. As a landlord, upgrading your outdoor space will increase its appeal — and as a tenant, it makes your home more enjoyable to live in.
In this article, we will explore the importance of outdoor spaces. For the landlords, we’ve put together some tips that will add value to your property — and for the tenants, we’ve added some simple things to make your home more functional and aesthetically pleasing, without breaching your contract. Let’s get into it!
The Importance of Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor spaces play a crucial role in rental properties. For landlords, a well-designed and maintained outdoor area can attract high-quality tenants and increase the rental value of the property. When potential tenants see a beautiful outdoor space, they are more likely to envision themselves enjoying the space and being willing to pay a premium for it. Additionally, outdoor spaces can differentiate your property from others on the market, giving you a competitive edge.
For tenants, outdoor spaces provide an extension of their living area. It's a place where they can relax, entertain guests, or spend time with family and friends. A well-designed outdoor space can significantly enhance the overall living experience. It allows tenants to enjoy the pleasant Brisbane weather and make the most of the extra sunlight. Therefore, both landlords and tenants have a vested interest in creating attractive and functional outdoor spaces.
Value-Adding Tips for Landlords
Assess the Space: Before you start transforming the outdoor area, carefully assess the space available. Consider the size, shape, and layout of the area. This evaluation will help you determine what changes are feasible and how to make the most of the existing features.
Create Zones: Divide the outdoor space into different zones to maximize its functionality. For example, you can designate an area for dining, a separate space for lounging, and a section for gardening or outdoor activities. This zoning creates a sense of purpose and allows tenants to utilize the space according to their needs.
Invest in Landscaping: A well-maintained garden can do wonders for the overall appeal of your rental property. Consider hiring a professional landscaper to design and maintain the outdoor area. They can help you choose the right plants, create an aesthetically pleasing layout, and ensure that the garden remains in good condition throughout the year.
Provide Shade: Brisbane's hot climate calls for adequate shading in outdoor areas. Install shade sails, umbrellas, or pergolas to protect tenants from the harsh sun. This will make the outdoor space more comfortable and encourage tenants to spend more time outdoors.
Add Lighting: Outdoor lighting not only enhances the aesthetics but also extends the usability of the space into the evening. Install ambient lighting, such as string lights or lanterns, to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Additionally, consider adding task lighting to specific areas, such as the dining or barbecue area, for practical purposes.
Personalisation Ideas for Tenants
Container Gardening: If you're a tenant, container gardening is a great way to personalize the outdoor space without making permanent changes. Choose potted plants and flowers that reflect your personal taste and style. You can also grow herbs and vegetables in containers, creating a functional and visually appealing garden.
Outdoor Decor: Add your personal touch by decorating the outdoor area with furniture, cushions, and accessories that reflect your style. Choose weather-resistant materials that can withstand Brisbane's climate. Consider adding rugs, throw pillows, and outdoor artwork to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Vertical Gardens: If space is limited, consider creating a vertical garden. Use wall-mounted planters or hanging baskets to grow plants vertically. This not only maximizes the available space but also adds visual interest and greenery to the outdoor area.
Remember, as per your tenancy contract you must seek written approval from your Landlord via your Property Manager for permission to do this.
Outdoor Entertainment: Make the most of your outdoor space by incorporating entertainment features such as a barbecue or outdoor speakers. These additions will allow you to enjoy the space with family and friends, creating memorable experiences.
Privacy Screens: If you would like more privacy in your outdoor space, install portable privacy screens or large potted plants. This will create a secluded and intimate space where you can relax and enjoy your outdoor oasis.
Ideas for Apartment Living
Living in an apartment doesn't mean you have to miss out on outdoor enjoyment! Here are some ideas for landlords and tenants to make the most of apartment living:
For Landlords:
Offering Building Amenities: If you're a landlord of an apartment complex, consider highlighting or adding building amenities like a shared rooftop garden, BBQ area, or a community pool. These shared spaces can significantly enhance the appeal of your property for potential tenants.
Balcony Guidelines: Create guidelines that allow tenants to personalize their balcony spaces within reasonable limits. Encourage the use of potted plants, outdoor rugs, and weather-resistant furniture to make the space inviting.
For Tenants:
Personalize Your Balcony: Even a small balcony can become a relaxing oasis. Add potted flowers, a small table, and a chair to create a personal retreat.
Utilize Building Amenities: Make the most of the amenities your building offers. Whether it's enjoying a swim in the community pool or hosting friends on the rooftop BBQ area, these spaces are there for your enjoyment and can extend your living space beyond the walls of your apartment.
Landscaping Tips
Whether you're a landlord or a tenant, landscaping and gardening can significantly enhance the outdoor space of your rental property. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Choose the Right Plants: Select plants that are well-suited to Brisbane's climate and soil conditions. Native plants are a great choice as they are adapted to the local environment and require less water and maintenance. Consider factors such as sun exposure, shade, and soil drainage when choosing plants for your outdoor area.
Create a Focal Point: Incorporate a focal point in your outdoor space to draw attention and create visual interest. This could be a striking plant, a water feature, or a sculpture. A focal point adds depth and personality to the outdoor area, making it more visually appealing.
Consider Water Efficiency: Brisbane's hot climate means water efficiency is crucial. Install drip irrigation systems or use mulch to retain moisture in the soil. Choose plants that are drought-tolerant and require less water. This will not only reduce water consumption but also save you money on utility bills.
Prune Regularly: Regular pruning is essential to keep plants healthy and maintain their shape. Trim overgrown branches, remove dead or diseased foliage, and shape hedges and shrubs. Pruning also promotes healthy growth and prevents plants from becoming unruly.
Encourage Wildlife: Create a garden that attracts and supports local wildlife. Plant native flowering plants to attract bees, butterflies, and birds. Install bird feeders or a small pond to provide food and water for wildlife. Encouraging biodiversity adds to the overall beauty and ecological value of your outdoor space.
Landlord Responsibilities for Maintaining Outdoor Areas
As a landlord, it's important to understand your responsibilities for maintaining the outdoor areas of your rental property. These responsibilities may vary depending on the specific terms of your lease agreement and local regulations. However, some common landlord responsibilities include:
Regular Maintenance: Landlords are typically responsible for the regular maintenance of the outdoor areas. This includes mowing the lawn, pruning trees and shrubs, and managing the garden. Regular maintenance ensures that the outdoor space remains in good condition and enhances the overall appeal of the property.
Safety and Security: Landlords should ensure that the outdoor areas are safe and secure for tenants. This may involve repairing or replacing damaged fences, ensuring adequate lighting, and addressing any potential hazards such as loose paving stones or slippery surfaces.
Pest Control: Landlords are responsible for managing pest control in outdoor areas. This includes dealing with issues such as ants, mosquitoes, or other pests that may affect the usability of the outdoor space. Regular pest control measures can help maintain a healthy and enjoyable environment for tenants.
Seasonal Maintenance: Landlords should also consider seasonal maintenance tasks for the outdoor areas. This may include cleaning gutters, removing fallen leaves, and preparing the garden for different seasons. By proactively addressing seasonal maintenance, landlords can ensure that the outdoor space remains in top condition throughout the year.
Ready To Upgrade Your Outdoor Space?
Transforming your property’s outdoor areas is a win-win for everybody. Landlords can attract high-quality tenants, increase rental value, and differentiate their property from others on the market. Tenants, on the other hand, can enjoy an extension of their living area, relax, entertain guests, and make the most of Brisbane's pleasant weather.
By following the expert tips provided in this article, landlords can transform outdoor spaces into inviting and functional areas that appeal to tenants. Tenants can personalize these spaces to reflect their style and preferences. Remember, a well-maintained outdoor space offers numerous benefits, including higher rental value, tenant satisfaction, improved property appeal, and enhanced health and well-being.
If you're looking for a property management company to take care of your investment, contact Aurora Realty today. They have the expertise and experience to help you maximize the potential of your rental property's outdoor space.