Key takeaways
- You can easily start DIY apartment upgrades on an outdated apartment with simple changes like painting the walls and updating lighting fixtures.
- The upgrades that add the most value to an apartment are those that enhance functionality, aesthetics, and energy efficiency.
- Some of the top DIY apartment upgrades to consider implementing include refreshing paint, installing smart home features, and making flooring improvements.
As a property manager, keeping your apartment buildings appealing to current and prospective residents is essential. Plus, with the growing demand for modern, comfortable living spaces, upgrading your multifamily interior and exterior design can significantly boost its value and desirability.
However, it’s no secret that maintaining a budget is also a priority. So, in this post, we cover eleven DIY apartment upgrades that are renter-friendly, affordable, and designed to enhance the living experience for your tenants.
In this post:
How do I update an outdated apartment?
You can easily start updating an outdated apartment with simple changes like painting the walls, updating lighting fixtures, and refreshing the overall feel of an apartment with new appliances.
What’s more, consider replacing old hardware on cabinets and installing new, stylish faucets in the kitchen and bathroom. Adding smart home features such as keyless entry systems can also bring an outdated apartment into the modern age.
What adds the most value to an apartment?
The upgrades that add the most value to an apartment are those that enhance functionality, aesthetics, and energy efficiency. Investing in energy-efficient appliances and lighting can lower utility costs, making the apartment more attractive to potential renters. Moreover, upgrading kitchens and bathrooms with modern fixtures and finishes can significantly boost the property’s appeal.
11 DIY apartment upgrades
If you’re looking to incorporate budget-friendly apartment upgrades to your property, there are plenty of options at your fingertips.
Here are eleven apartment upgrades you can DIY:
- Fresh paint and apartment-safe wallpaper
- Updated lighting fixtures
- Smart home features
- Modern kitchen backsplash
- Bathroom upgrades
- Flooring improvements
- Window treatments
- Closet organizers
- Accent walls
- Energy-efficient appliances
- Outdoor space enhancement
1. Fresh paint and apartment-safe wallpaper
A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for any space, instantly revitalizing tired, worn-out walls. Opt for neutral tones to create a clean, inviting atmosphere that appeals to a broad range of tastes. What’s more, neutral colors not only make rooms look larger and brighter but also provide a blank canvas for residents to personalize.
For a more personalized touch, consider apartment-safe wallpaper. These peel-and-stick options are easy to apply and remove, making them perfect for rental units. With various patterns and textures available, apartment-safe wallpaper can add character and depth to any room without causing damage to the walls, ensuring a hassle-free turnover when tenants move out.
2. Updated lighting fixtures
Lighting can dramatically change the look and feel of an apartment, and swapping outdated light fixtures with energy-efficient options can brighten up the space and also reduce electricity costs. LED lights are an excellent choice as they last longer and consume less energy than traditional bulbs.
Additionally, installing dimmer switches allows residents to adjust lighting according to their mood or the time of day, adding a touch of luxury. Pendant lights in kitchens, stylish sconces in living areas, and elegant chandeliers in dining spaces can elevate the apartment’s aesthetic appeal, making it feel more modern and inviting.
3. Smart home features
Incorporating smart home devices into your multifamily apartment’s design can significantly enhance the living experience for tech-savvy renters. Smart locks, thermostats, and lighting systems offer convenience and efficiency, allowing residents to control their environment with ease.
Further, smart locks provide enhanced security and the ability to grant access remotely, which is particularly useful for property managers during maintenance or inspections. Moreover, smart thermostats can help residents save on energy bills by learning their schedules and adjusting temperatures automatically. Lastly, smart lighting systems, with features like voice control and automation, add a modern touch and make everyday living more convenient and enjoyable.
4. Modern kitchen backsplash
The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and updating the backsplash can instantly modernize this crucial space. Plus, installing a new backsplash doesn’t have to be expensive or time-consuming. Renter-friendly options like adhesive tiles or peel-and-stick backsplash panels are easy to install and remove without damaging the walls.
When upgrading the kitchen, choose from a variety of designs, such as sleek subway tiles, bold geometric patterns, or rustic stone looks, to add a personal touch to the kitchen. A modern backsplash not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also makes cleaning easier, providing both style and practicality.
5. Bathroom upgrades
Simple bathroom upgrades can make a big difference in how the space feels and functions. Replace old showerheads with water-saving models that offer multiple spray settings for a luxurious shower experience, or update faucets with sleek, modern designs that give the bathroom a fresh, contemporary look.
Installing new vanity mirrors with built-in lighting can improve both functionality and style, making daily routines more convenient. Adding storage solutions like shelves or wall-mounted cabinets can help residents keep their bathrooms organized and clutter-free, enhancing the overall appeal of the apartment.
6. Flooring improvements
Consider updating the flooring with affordable, durable options like vinyl or laminate. These materials are not only budget-friendly but also easy to maintain, making them ideal for rental properties. Vinyl and laminate flooring come in a variety of styles, including designs that mimic hardwood or stone, providing a high-end look without the high cost.
These floors are resistant to scratches and stains, which is a significant advantage in rental units where durability is key. Upgrading the flooring can make a dramatic difference in the overall appearance of an apartment, making it look cleaner, more modern, and well-maintained.
Discover these five design trends your residents will love:
7. Window treatments
Upgrade window treatments with stylish and functional blinds or curtains. Choose neutral colors that complement any decor style and enhance the natural light in the apartment. Blackout curtains can be a great addition, offering privacy and improved sleep quality by blocking out light.
Consider customizing window treatments to fit the specific dimensions of each window, ensuring a perfect fit and a polished look, contributing to the overall appeal of the apartment.
8. Closet organizers
Install closet organizers to maximize storage space, making the apartment more functional and attractive to residents. Customizable shelving and hanging solutions can help residents keep their belongings organized and make the apartment feel more spacious.
Additionally, options like adjustable rods, pull-out drawers, and shoe racks provide flexible storage solutions that can be tailored to individual needs. By enhancing the storage capacity of closets, you can improve the overall functionality of the apartment, making it more appealing to potential renters who value organization and efficient use of space.
9. Accent walls
Create an accent wall using paint or wallpaper to add character and interest to any room. This simple yet effective upgrade can transform a bland space into a focal point that draws attention and sets the tone for the decor.
Refresh a space with bold colors or patterns that can be easily changed if needed, ensuring flexibility for future updates. What’s more, an accent wall can make a significant impact without overwhelming the space, providing a cost-effective way to enhance the apartment’s interior design and create a more personalized, stylish living environment.
10. Energy-efficient appliances
If your budget allows, replace old appliances with energy-efficient models. Look for ENERGY STAR-rated products that can save on utility bills and reduce the property’s carbon footprint. Modern appliances not only consume less energy but also offer improved performance and features that can enhance the living experience for residents.
Plus, updating to energy-efficient refrigerators, dishwashers, and laundry machines can make the apartment more attractive to environmentally conscious renters and contribute to long-term savings on utility costs, benefiting both residents and property managers.
11. Outdoor space enhancement
Enhance outdoor spaces by adding comfortable seating, greenery planters, and even outdoor lighting. A well-maintained outdoor area can serve as an attractive extension of the living space, providing a place for residents to relax and socialize.
Additionally, consider adding a small garden or installing a communal area to encourage community interactions. Outdoor improvements can significantly increase the property’s appeal, making it more inviting and enjoyable for residents. Working on the design of outdoor spaces can also improve the overall aesthetic of the property, contributing to a positive first impression for potential renters.
