The Top 4 Features Tenants Look for in a Rental Property

Ascent Property Management • July 17, 2023

As a property management company, understanding what tenants seek in a rental property is essential for attracting and retaining high-quality occupants. Tenants have specific preferences and expectations that can make or break their decision to choose your property. 


Safety and Security

Safety is of paramount importance to any tenant. A property equipped with safety features such as well-maintained locks, security cameras, and proper lighting can significantly impact a tenant's decision. You can also highlight any gated communities, security patrols, or other safety measures in place to give your tenants peace of mind.


Well-Maintained and Updated Interiors

Tenants are drawn to properties that are well-maintained and have modern amenities. An attractive interior with clean and fresh paint, updated fixtures, and appliances can make a lasting impression. Regularly inspect and invest in your property's interiors to ensure they are in top-notch condition, which can lead to happier tenants and possibly higher rental income.

Storage space in home

Well-Maintained and Updated Interiors

Tenants are drawn to properties that are well-maintained and have modern amenities. An attractive interior with clean and fresh paint, updated fixtures, and appliances can make a lasting impression. Regularly inspect and invest in your property's interiors to ensure they are in top-notch condition, which can lead to happier tenants and possibly higher rental income.


Adequate Storage Space

Ample storage space is a feature that often goes underestimated. Tenants value closets, cabinets, and storage areas to keep their living space organized and clutter-free. Highlight any additional storage options your property offers, such as a basement, attic, or on-site storage units, to attract those who need extra space for their belongings.

Happy dog

Pet-Friendly Policies

The number of pet owners seeking rental properties has increased over the years. Offering pet-friendly policies can expand your pool of potential tenants. Consider allowing pets with reasonable pet deposits or pet rent, and clearly outline your pet policies to ensure responsible pet ownership. This will make your property more appealing to a larger segment of the rental market.


Ascent Property Management

Keep in mind that communication and transparency are also essential throughout the rental process. By addressing your tenants' needs and providing a positive renting experience, you'll enhance your property's reputation and ultimately lead to greater success. If you need assistance from a property management pro, schedule a free consultation today

By Ascent Property Management June 18, 2025
As temperatures rise, keeping rental units cool isn’t just a comfort issue, it’s a tenant satisfaction and property care priority. At Ascent Property Management, we understand how crucial it is to stay ahead of seasonal challenges, especially during warm summer months. Helping your tenants beat the heat can protect your investment, reduce strain on cooling systems, and contribute to long-term tenant retention. Here are a few smart, landlord-approved ways to keep your rental unit cool: Service the HVAC System Regularly Before the peak of summer hits, ensure that the air conditioning system is inspected and maintained. Dirty filters and clogged ducts make the system work harder, driving up energy costs and reducing efficiency. Routine maintenance not only extends the life of the unit but also helps avoid emergency repair calls in the middle of a heatwave. Install Ceiling Fans or Portable AC Units Ceiling fans are a low-cost upgrade that help circulate air and can make a room feel significantly cooler. In properties without central air, offering tenants the option of a portable AC unit (or installing one in key areas) can make a big difference. Block Out the Heat Window treatments like blackout curtains or solar shades are easy upgrades that can reduce heat gain and protect furniture and flooring from sun damage. Consider adding or upgrading blinds and encouraging tenants to keep them closed during peak sun hours. Insulate and Seal Properly Make sure your unit is properly insulated and that doors and windows are sealed. Heat can easily sneak in through small gaps, especially in older buildings. Weather stripping and door sweeps are inexpensive fixes that help maintain indoor temperatures year-round. Ascent Pro perty Management  At Ascent Property Management, we stay proactive in keeping our properties in top shape through every season. Whether it’s scheduling seasonal maintenance, making cost-effective upgrades, or addressing tenant concerns quickly, we make property ownership easier. Want help managing your rental? We’re here to ensure your investment stays comfortable, efficient, and profitable...all year long.
By Ascent Property Management May 27, 2025
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By Ascent Property Management April 24, 2025
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By Ascent Property Management March 19, 2025
As spring arrives in San Diego, so does one of the biggest threats to rental properties—termites. While termites are a year-round concern, spring is when they become most active, swarming in search of new places to establish colonies. For landlords, early detection and prevention are crucial to avoiding costly damage. Here’s what you need to know about termite season and how to protect your rental property. Why Spring Is Peak Termite Season Termites, particularly dry wood and subterranean species become more visible in the spring because of increased warmth and humidity. Swarmers—winged termites looking for new homes—emerge in large numbers, often resembling flying ants. If you or your tenants notice them inside or around the property, it’s a sign that termites may already exist. Signs of a Termite Infestation Landlords should stay vigilant for these common signs of termite activity: Mud Tubes: Subterranean termites build small, pencil-thin tunnels along walls and foundations to retain moisture as they travel. Hollow-Sounding Wood: If tapping on wood surfaces produces a hollow sound, termites may have eaten away the interior. Frass (Termite Droppings): Drywood termites leave behind tiny, wood-colored droppings near infested areas. Warped Doors and Windows: As termites tunnel through wood, they can cause structures to shift, making doors and windows harder to open or close. Visible Swarmers or Discarded Wings: Seeing swarmers inside a rental property or piles of shed wings is a major red flag. Prevention Tips for Landlords To keep termites at bay, landlords should take proactive measures, such as: Scheduling Regular Inspections: Annual termite inspections can catch infestations before they become severe. Keeping the Property Dry: Fixing leaks, maintaining gutters, and ensuring proper drainage reduces the moisture termites need to survive. Using Treated Wood: If making repairs, opt for termite-resistant materials. Removing Wood-to-Soil Contact: Avoid storing firewood near the foundation and ensure wooden structures don’t directly touch the soil. Protecting Your Investment with Professional Help At Ascent Property Management, we understand how crucial it is to avoid issues with your investment property. Our team is here to help you manage your property with proactive maintenance and expert guidance, ensuring your rental stays in great shape. Reach out today to learn how we can support you in protecting your investment.
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By Ascent Property Management June 18, 2025
As temperatures rise, keeping rental units cool isn’t just a comfort issue, it’s a tenant satisfaction and property care priority. At Ascent Property Management, we understand how crucial it is to stay ahead of seasonal challenges, especially during warm summer months. Helping your tenants beat the heat can protect your investment, reduce strain on cooling systems, and contribute to long-term tenant retention. Here are a few smart, landlord-approved ways to keep your rental unit cool: Service the HVAC System Regularly Before the peak of summer hits, ensure that the air conditioning system is inspected and maintained. Dirty filters and clogged ducts make the system work harder, driving up energy costs and reducing efficiency. Routine maintenance not only extends the life of the unit but also helps avoid emergency repair calls in the middle of a heatwave. Install Ceiling Fans or Portable AC Units Ceiling fans are a low-cost upgrade that help circulate air and can make a room feel significantly cooler. In properties without central air, offering tenants the option of a portable AC unit (or installing one in key areas) can make a big difference. Block Out the Heat Window treatments like blackout curtains or solar shades are easy upgrades that can reduce heat gain and protect furniture and flooring from sun damage. Consider adding or upgrading blinds and encouraging tenants to keep them closed during peak sun hours. Insulate and Seal Properly Make sure your unit is properly insulated and that doors and windows are sealed. Heat can easily sneak in through small gaps, especially in older buildings. Weather stripping and door sweeps are inexpensive fixes that help maintain indoor temperatures year-round. Ascent Pro perty Management  At Ascent Property Management, we stay proactive in keeping our properties in top shape through every season. Whether it’s scheduling seasonal maintenance, making cost-effective upgrades, or addressing tenant concerns quickly, we make property ownership easier. Want help managing your rental? We’re here to ensure your investment stays comfortable, efficient, and profitable...all year long.
By Ascent Property Management May 27, 2025
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By Ascent Property Management April 24, 2025
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