Through the Looking Glass : How Window Treatments Affect Potential Renters

In a recent blog post by Trevor Henson, COO of First Light Property Management, the author discusses the importance of the often overlooked window treatments when it comes to potential residents assessing the value of your property.  In the dynamic world of property management, the competition is stiff, and management needs to do what they can to set themselves apart from the rest of the market.

“More and more landlords are learning the little touches that truly make a difference when it comes to getting their properties rented,” Henson writes.  “While basics like clean and well-maintained carpets, working appliances and nicely painted walls are appreciated by potential renters, they are probably looking for other, less common amenities.”

Although curtains or blinds may not seem like such a big deal, consider your prospective space from a customer perspective. Odds are, as you’re giving a tour and mentioning all the great features of your property, the potential client is noting what will need to be done after they move in, such as installing a shower curtain rod, putting a lock on the bathroom, or buying closet storage racks. Choosing an apartment or house with empty windows means the resident will now have to purchase and hang curtains, blinds, or shades to not only make the place feel like home, but to also provide some privacy from the neighbors. The resident will also most likely need to take care of the window treatments right after moving in, unless they want the complex to see what they’re eating for dinner or watching on TV after work.

But window treatments do have benefits for property managers, too. To begin with, they can reduce electric bills by blocking out some of the light (keeping it cooler) or closing out a draft (keeping it warmer). In fact, you can even use curtains with a white lining in the summer to deflect heat, and a dark lining in the winter to absorb it. Glass itself doesn’t always have ideal insulation, but a set of blinds can help the apartment maintain a comfortable temperature by acting as an additional barrier between the outside weather and your residents.

So, with all this talk of benefits, what are the best treatments for your windows?

“Landlords can’t really go wrong with classic and sturdy mini-blinds or curtains. They don’t have to cost an arm and a leg, but it is definitely worth the money to purchase something that is built to last,” Henderson concludes.  “Low quality mini-blinds that break easily can make the entire home or apartment look shabby. Stick with something that is high-quality and functional and is in a neutral color.”

Chances are your potential customers have walked through a few properties with noticeably bare windows – don’t let this detail make a bad impression with prospective clients.