Even in Southern California, and Long Beach in particular, we have a few “hot” days. Nearby areas such as Palm Springs or Valencia might not classify our days as hot however when temperatures reach the high 80’s and low 90’s it certainly can inspire a desire to cool down.
When tenants are looking for a great home to rent, one of the items that can be on their list is that of a pool. If you own a rental in the Long Beach neighborhoods of Plaza (East and West), Los Altos (North and South) or Bixby Knolls then you have a high probability of having a
pool with your rental. Tenants looking to rent in these neighborhoods can be willing to pay more (and even rent for longer periods) because the home has a pool.
Creating a True Outdoor Area
While a pool may be the center of attention in the yard it is not the only item that will create an enjoyable area outdoors. Having your pool contribute to a higher monthly rental income means having it be a part of a larger “outdoor area” where a tenant can envision themselves enjoying many a day for years to come.
Eating Area
Generally people aren’t knocking down their Olympic training routine in a backyard pool. While some may enjoy swimming laps the pool is often used as a hub for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors on warm summer days. To help your tenants enjoy the outdoor space consider putting out a nice table with an umbrella to allow them to relax while others enjoy pool time.
A BBQ is often a feature you will see in a short-term rental because an owner of a short-term rental wants that tenant to enjoy their home just like a hotel property but that doesn’t stop you from doing the same with your long-term rental. Consider placing a BBQ and don’t forget to identify in the lease that it is property associated with your rental. It is also recommended to outline cleaning guidelines for the barbecue.
Fire Pit
When night falls you don’t want your tenant feeling like they have to go inside. Fire pits come in options of natural gas, propane, and wood. For rentals we would recommend the lower maintenance propane version as they tend to put out warmth without the wide range of flames that a wood pit can produce. Many propane versions can take the same style tanks as BBQs. To help your tenant maximize their enjoyment of the fire pit consider having seating specific to the fire pit area.
Privacy Fence or Landscaping
As you evaluate the pool area with your
Long Beach rental
take note of the fencing around the property. Does foliage provide a layer of privacy? Often a wonderful row of foliage is the best match to create additional cost effective privacy, but take time to explore your options to create the best possible experience for the area surrounding the pool.
Safety Consideration
One item that is raised on home inspections, but sometimes forgotten if the home has been a rental for some time, is that of the requirement of a fence around the pool. A fence around the pool, while an investment, is a
requirement
and helps everyone enjoy the benefits of the pool with added safety when smaller children are present.
When it comes to knowing if a pool will help the value of your rental the answer truly is going to be “it depends”. Each neighborhood and property will be different and it takes a bit of analysis and understanding of the local rental trends to determine how it will impact the monthly rent that is collected. When you want to understand how the pool at your property (whether it be a single family home, condo, or multi-unit) impacts the rent we invite you to fill out our Free Rental Analysis or call us today (562) 888-0247 and we will be happy to share more.
