Why Caring Landlords Make More Money (And How You Can Too)

Jun 21

For too long, rental property ownership has been about one thing: the bottom line. But focusing solely on profit often means landlords overlook what actually drives revenue: people.

When landlords care—really care—about their properties and the people living in them, the numbers start to follow. A clean yard, prompt repairs, and periodic check-ins may seem small, but they translate to something big: tenant retention, property value, and higher long-term profits.

Caring = Higher Tenant Retention

High turnover is costly. According to the National Apartment Association, the average cost of tenant turnover is $3,976 per unit when factoring in lost rent, marketing, and maintenance. Keeping good tenants longer saves you money and builds stability.

Caring landlords see lower turnover because tenants who feel respected and safe are more likely to renew. That means fewer vacancy gaps and reduced re-leasing costs.

Good Maintenance = Higher Rents & Longer Leases

Basic upkeep like clean gutters, weeded flower beds, or even a fresh coat of paint communicates that you value your property and, by extension, your tenants.

Proactive care also prevents bigger problems. Fixing a leak early costs far less than repairing water damage. And when tenants know you take maintenance seriously, they’re more likely to take good care of the place themselves.

Community-Minded Landlords Build Value

You’re not just renting out four walls and a roof—you’re shaping a small piece of a community. Tenants are more than occupants, they’re neighbors, parents, employees, and friends. A community-minded landlord builds stronger relationships, encourages longer stays, and can even earns positive online reviews, which matter more than ever.

Small gestures go far:

Provide a welcome kit when at move in (Rental Care Co. customizable kits).
Send a seasonal email with maintenance reminders and local updates (our email templates will make this easy).
Recommend your favorite local coffee shops, restaurants, or parks—especially helpful for anyone new to the area.
Say hello and check in if you’re in the area.
Send a holiday card, or even include a small gift card as a thank-you at the end of the year.

These actions cost very little but build goodwill, and goodwill builds wealth.

Caring Still Makes Financial Sense

Being a caring landlord doesn’t mean overspending. It means spending wisely:

Mulch is cheap and boosts curb appeal.
A $50 handyman visit—or a simple DIY fix if it’s within your skillset—may prevent a $500 repair.
Treating tenants with dignity prevents the legal costs of conflict.

Data shows that properties with better landlord-tenant relationships often rent for more and have lower delinquency rates. According to Zillow, renters prioritize responsive maintenance and respectful communication just as much as rent price when choosing whether to renew.

Final Thoughts: Kindness Is a Strategy

If you’ve been treating your rental like a passive ATM, it’s time to rethink that approach. When you see your tenants as partners—not just rent payments—you create an environment where everyone wins: your renters feel respected and cared for, and you benefit from longer stays and a healthier bottom line.

At Rental Care Co., we believe being a good landlord means being a thoughtful one. We’re here to support that mindset with practical tools—like welcome kits, maintenance checklists, and easy-to-use templates—that make caring for your tenants and your property second nature. It’s our way of helping you create rental experiences that stand out, build trust, and grow your business the right way.

Krystle Lilliestierna