Possibly the first thing to consider is how long patio furniture might last. Before spending money on anything for your rental home, you need to determine whether that investment will pay for itself. Part of that calculating is figuring out the life expectancy for any outdoor furniture you plan to purchase. Unlike other elements of your investment property, there is no one number you can use.
The lifespan of your outdoor furniture differs extensively depending 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 piece of outdoor furniture. What is more, if your tenant never covers or cares for the furniture, dirt, rust, or sun, rain, or snow exposure could quickly turn that beautiful outdoor chair or table into an eyesore.
Another major thing to consider before buying outdoor furniture for your Providence rental property is whether the backyard and your property’s location is suited for it. Trying to fill a small patio or porch with large furniture isn’t a good look, 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 necessary 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 happen. For example, metal furniture can get very hot in the sun and cause serious burns in warmer climates, especially during the summer.
Before deciding to buy outdoor furniture, it’s also a good idea to consider the question from your tenant’s perspective. Some tenants may already have some patio and other furniture, and may not want the furniture you provide. This may constitute a whole new list of issues, including where to store the unused furniture.
On the other hand, 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. Placing a sofa or other unsuitable furniture outside of your rental home could quickly become a big problem. Not only will the fabric invite bugs, rodents, and mold, it will also start to look and smell terrible in a short amount of time. If you already have outdoor furniture in place, you significantly reduce the chances that your tenant will add unsuitable furniture of their own.
In the end, buying outdoor furniture for your Providence rental property is a decision only you can make. But with the right information and some careful research, you can more easily decide which route makes sense for your investment properties.
Looking for more advice, or even someone to manage your rental? Reach out to Real Property Management Providence! Contact us online or call us at 401-272-3300 today.