As you consider the best ways to attract new renters to your properties, don't neglect curb appeal. Renters are much different than homebuyers in several ways, but one way in which they are the same is the fact that both want an attractive place to live. Your landscaping and other curb appeal features are the first things people notice about your property. Give a little attention to them, and watch as you see more applications come your way.

Provide Outdoor Recreational Space 

Outdoor recreational space is a huge benefit to renters. Grills, benches and picnic tables do not take a lot of room, but they add a nice feature that potential renters will appreciate. Even if you don't have the room for a playground or ball fields, consider giving your tenants some outdoor entertaining space with a few simple upgrades.

Give the Landscaping Some TLC

How attractive is your landscaping? Your complex or multifamily housing unit does not need to win home and garden awards, but it should look neat and have attractive landscaping. Fresh flowers and well-mown lawns are not hard to maintain, but make a big difference in how attractive your property seems.

When planting flowers or shrubs, go for low maintenance. Slow-growing shrubs that won't need to be trimmed often or perennial flowers that will come back year after year are both great options. Add a border around planted areas to make them look tidy.

Paint It

Does the paint on the exterior of the property look clean and fresh? A new coat of paint on exposed wood, such as stair railings, and a bright, inviting color on shutters and trim will cause people to stop and take a second look at your property. Paint the siding as well, if it needs it, to freshen the space. When painting, aim for fairly neutral colors and a uniform look, rather than something too exotic.

Pay Attention to Upkeep

Is there something obviously broken on the exterior of your property? Repairing holes in the walls, dealing with drooping gutters and roof damage, and cleaning up the property to remove clutter and garbage are priority when you are seeking better curb appeal. Even if the interior of the property is immaculate, if the exterior looks worn down, people won't make an appointment for a tour.

Add Lighting

Lighting is important for rental properties for security reasons, and when you add lighting you can also boost curb appeal. When your property is well lit, people who drive by the property at night or on cloudy days will be drawn to it. Front porch lighting as well as lighting in common parking areas are a great way to boost the curb appeal. You can even add solar lights to walkways to improve safety and attractiveness without driving up cost.

Clean and Brighten Walkways and Driveways

Finally, make sure the sidewalks, driveways and other walkways are in good repair, and add some lighting to these areas if you can. Crumbling sidewalks and cracking driveways will leave potential tenants wondering if you are serious about taking care of the property. Also, poorly lit walkways will make tenants fear for their safety when they come home to their apartment after a late night of work. Alleviate their worries by keeping these common areas well kept.

Giving your apartment or rental home some curb appeal doesn't have to be hard, but the investment you make into these changes will reap excellent returns with more interested tenants and fewer vacancies. A little bit of time now is well worth it when you have filled apartments and satisfied tenants.