Your Rental Property Facelift Guide

If you own an average home in Edmonton, Alberta you made $161 yesterday and will do so again today. That is the increase in the real estate market at present. Knowing this should help you understand that real estate investing in Canada is a smart thing to do.

Buying and selling property doesn't need to be an intimidating proposition when you look at the fundamentals of the market and keep them in mind when looking to own land. We invest in mutual funds and are grateful for the interest even when it is less than one percent because at least this year we didn't lose any of it. Alternatively, we look at the crazy increase that is available when we own land whether we are buying it or selling it, because of it's inherent value.

The vacancy rate in Edmonton is less than one percent and Red Deer has a zero vacancy rate right now. When you own property you are able to help those looking for housing and feel good about your investment increase at the same time. While raw land may not have the same value as property with a home on it, it is still worth taking a look at for the money you have to invest. The buying market is tight but there are still some good deals to be found by those selling you just may have to look a little harder.

Ultimately real estate is a great vehicle to invest your money in right now as buying property is the surest way to see a positive return with Alberta being the second best place in the world for buying land. Vacancy rates are low and employment rates are high which means the money you invest in property is making money for you. Buying for rental income is a great way to go and your investment can be enhanced with a few small tips.

Okay so you love shag carpet and lava lamps. That is not to say your renters will when they come to take a look at your revenue property. It’s important to keep in mind that while your tastes may be, shall we say timeless, you have to make your property welcoming. Please do us all a favorite and stay away from “renter beige” but give it a warm color that is still in the neutrals so that it can match almost any furniture they bring with them. New paint and carpet or sometimes just a good cleaning of the flooring is the least expensive and most dramatic way to increase the perceived value of your rental property. If that value is perceived to be higher the amount you can charge for rent goes up as well. Aside from new paint and a neutral carpet you can look at new lighting, which can be inexpensive and make a big difference.

The first touch your potential renter has with the property is the front door. Is the lock broken or loose? Is the door warped or worn? A new door with a decorative window will give them the feeling of safety and security and will provide a great return on your investment. Be sure the house numbers are large, visible from the street and well lit.

Once inside the property look around with fresh eyes as if seeing it for the first time. Perhaps the avocado green stove and the harvest gold fridge could use some updating as well. While you don’t have to go for the top of the line appliances, do be sure that they match and will work well for a long time. You can’t go wrong with choosing white for these, as it is a crisp, clean color. Another option if you have a few suites in one building is to install a coin operated washer and dryer. If you share the revenue with the laundry company you may be able to side step the repair and maintenance woes as that company could be in charge of them. New appliances can increase your monthly rental charge (perceived value again) and reduce the time and effort spent on the not so reliable older machines.

While you want to provide a great home for your renters you must also keep in mind that this is a business and keeping your eye on the bottom line is essential. It often doesn’t take much to be able to accomplish both.