Maybe the first thing to consider is how long patio furniture might last. Before spending money on anything for your rental home, it is necessary to determine whether that investment will pay for itself. Part of this analysis is figuring out the life expectancy of any outdoor decor you wanted to acquire. Unlike other elements of your investment property, there is no one number you can use.
The lifespan of your outdoor furniture differs significantly based on materials, construction, daily wear, and maintenance. Higher-quality furniture will probably last longer than cheaper items, but heavy use could shorten the life of any outdoor furniture. Besides, if your tenant never covers or cares for the furniture, dirt, rust, or sun, rain, or snow exposure could instantly transform that beautiful outdoor chair or table into an eyesore.
Another important thing to consider before getting outdoor furniture for your St. George rental property is whether the backyard and your property’s location is suited for it. Attempting to place a small patio or porch with large furniture is not good-looking, and neither is adding very small pieces to a large space. Either one might make your property’s outdoor spaces look uncomfortable, rather than inviting.
It’s also critical to consider how your tenants use the space, your landscape design, and what types of outdoor furniture would best compliment the house. Certain materials may not last long in some climates, while others are an injury lawsuit waiting to arise. For instance, metal furniture can get very hot in the sun and cause serious burns in warmer climates, especially during the summer.
Before deciding to acquire outdoor furniture, it is best to consider the question from your tenant’s perspective. Some tenants may already have some porch and other furnishings, and may not prefer the furniture you provide. This may cause new issues, such as where to store the unused furniture.
Otherwise, if you don’t provide outdoor furniture, your tenants might decide to “decorate” the porch or patio with furniture that is not designed for outdoor use. Putting a sofa or other unsuitable furniture outside of your rental house may easily be a significant problem. Not only does the fabric invite bugs, rodents, and mold, it will also start to look and smell terrible in a short amount of time. If you have already mounted your outdoor furniture in place, you will reduce the chances that your tenant will add unsuitable furniture of their own.
Yet, buying outdoor furniture for your St. George rental property is a decision no one but you can decide. But if you take a few guidelines and consider what to do, you can more easily decide which way makes sense for your investment properties.
Looking for more advice, or even someone to manage your rental? Reach out to Real Property Management Southern Utah! Contact us online or call us at 435-673-4242 today.