Top 6 Renovations To Increase Rent in West Virginia
If you're a landlord or real estate investor, you know that not all upgrades are created equal. Some renovations can help you command higher rent, attract better tenants, and reduce vacancy—while others can drain your budget without much return.
The key is to focus on improvements that add lasting value and are durable, appealing, and cost-effective. Based on experience managing hundreds of units, here are six of the best ROI renovations for rental properties.
1. Kitchen Refresh (Not a Full Remodel)
Estimated ROI: 80–120%
Tenants pay attention to kitchens. But a full gut job isn’t always necessary. Minor updates can make a big impact:
Paint or reface cabinets
Swap out countertops for butcher block or affordable quartz
Replace old hardware and install a modern faucet
Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances if the current ones are dated
Even small changes can make a kitchen feel brand new—and help you increase rent or fill the unit faster.
2. Bathroom Improvements
Estimated ROI: 70–110%
A clean, modern bathroom can make or break a rental listing. You don’t have to do a full renovation to boost appeal.
Focus on:
Installing a new vanity and mirror
Swapping in a low-flow toilet
Upgrading lighting fixtures
Replacing old tile grout or using waterproof LVP flooring
These updates make bathrooms feel fresh and low-maintenance without breaking the bank.
3. New Flooring
Estimated ROI: 70–100%
If your property still has wall-to-wall carpet or mismatched floors, it’s time for a change.
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring has become the go-to for landlords:
Durable and waterproof
Attractive wood-look finish
Easy to install and repair
Long-lasting compared to carpet
Upgrading flooring can help reduce turnover costs and appeal to pet owners or allergy-conscious tenants.
4. Exterior Curb Appeal
Estimated ROI: 80–100%
First impressions matter—even for renters. A few weekend upgrades can increase property value and reduce vacancy:
Power wash siding and paint the front door
Replace outdated house numbers and mailbox
Install modern porch lighting
Refresh landscaping with mulch, gravel, or low-maintenance plants
Even a tidy front yard and a clean walkway can set your rental apart.
5. Interior Paint & Lighting
Estimated ROI: 80–120%
A fresh coat of paint is one of the highest-ROI upgrades you can make. Stick to modern, neutral tones—think soft gray, greige, or warm white.
Pair it with updated lighting:
Swap out builder-grade fixtures for matte black or brushed nickel
Use daylight LED bulbs for a cleaner, more natural look
These upgrades instantly make a space feel brighter and more modern, and they’re among the most affordable changes you can make.
6. Add or Improve Laundry Access
Estimated ROI: 75–100%
In-unit laundry is one of the most requested amenities, especially in single-family and small multifamily rentals.
If hookups exist, install stackable or energy-efficient machines
If space is tight, consider a compact washer/dryer combo unit
At minimum, provide access to a clean, secure shared laundry area
This amenity can justify higher rent and reduce turnover—tenants will stay longer when laundry is convenient.
Final Thoughts
Renovations don’t need to be expensive to make a difference. Focusing on upgrades that tenants value—clean, functional kitchens and bathrooms, durable flooring, fresh paint, and laundry—can offer strong returns without overextending your budget.
If you need help evaluating which upgrades make sense for your rental property, our team can provide a property-specific renovation plan that balances cost and ROI. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.