The Power of Paint: A Landlord’s Best DIY Upgrade
When it comes to easy upgrades with big returns, paint tops the list. It’s affordable, DIY-friendly, and instantly makes a rental feel clean, modern, and cared for. Hiring out painting is always an option, but expect to pay $300–$800 per room. Doing it yourself saves money over time. Invest once in quality brushes and rollers and reuse them for years.
Why Fresh Paint Pays Off
On average, repainting costs about $60–$150 per room and can boost rental appeal and income by 1–3% annually. According to Zillow, fresh paint helps rentals lease faster and for higher rent.
At Rental Care Co., we love Sherwin-Williams for its coverage and durability. Trending shades for 2025 include:
Agreeable Gray (SW 7029)
Alabaster (SW 7008)
Repose Gray (SW 7015)
Sea Salt (SW 6204)
Pro Tip: Stick to neutral eggshell or satin finishes as they’re easy to clean and tenant-friendly.
Value for Tenants
Fresh paint does more than just cover old marks—it instantly makes a space feel cleaner, brighter, and more cared for. Tenants notice when a home feels fresh and healthy. In fact, surveys show renters list clean, well-maintained walls among the top reasons they choose to stay longer. A fresh coat shows you care about their comfort, not just your bottom line.
Let Tenants Add Personality
For an extra personal touch, allow tenants to pick an accent wall color. Collaborate on a tasteful option that works with your palette but gives them freedom to make the space theirs. It’s a small concession that makes a rental feel like a true home.
Steps to Getting a Pro-Level Finish
A smooth, clean paint job makes all the difference. Here’s how to get that professional look, even if you’re a DIYer:
Prep the Walls: Wipe down walls to remove dust and grease. Fill nail holes or small cracks with spackle, then sand smooth when dry.
Use Painter’s Tape Correctly: Tape trim, baseboards, and ceilings securely. Press edges down to stop paint leaks.
Prime if Needed: For dark walls or repairs, apply primer first for even color and better adhesion.
Cut in Edges: Use an angled brush to paint edges and corners before rolling. Work in sections to keep a wet edge.
Use the Right Roller: Pick a high-quality roller with the right nap for your wall type.
Roll in a W Pattern: Roll paint in a large "W," then fill it in with overlapping strokes to avoid lines.
Apply Two Thin Coats: Thin coats cover better and dry smoother than one heavy coat.
Remove Tape Before Fully Dry: Pull tape at a 45-degree angle while paint is slightly tacky to prevent peeling.
Allow Ample Dry Time: Follow the paint can’s directions before moving furniture back.
Putting in the effort up front gives your rental a fresh, crisp look that shows you care.
Final Thoughts
A little paint goes a long way. It’s a simple way to say, “Welcome home,” and to back it up with actions tenants appreciate. Combine a fresh coat with small gestures, like a thoughtful Rental Care Co. welcome kit on move-in day or easy-to-follow maintenance reminders, and you’ve got the recipe for happy tenants who stay longer and treat your place like their own. Good landlords do the basics well; great ones do it with heart. We’re here to help you be the latter.
At Rental Care Co., we believe great landlordship starts here. Our mission is to help you bring care and professionalism together with simple, practical tools: welcome kits, clear communication templates, and resources that make running your rental smoother and more human. We’re here to help you be the kind of landlord tenants want to stay with — and that makes your rental business stronger, year after year.
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