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Smart Upgrades for Nashville Single-Family Rentals

Lee Blackburn

Upgrading a rental property can feel less than urgent, especially if you don’t want to spend the money on new appliances, updated flooring, and features and amenities that are hot right now. 

Single-family rental homes, however, are especially attractive to tenants who want the experience of living in a home without buying their own. They value space and privacy and convenience. If you want your rental home to compete in the Nashville market for the best tenants, those upgrades are essential. 

That doesn’t necessarily require property owners to throw big budgets at renovations. It’s possible to make smart upgrades that are both cost-effective and most likely to increase the ROI on a single-family home. 

Nashville has become a huge market for single-family rental investments. Here’s how yours can be exceptionally desirable to tenants.

Investing in Smart Upgrades

Renters today are looking for homes that fit their lifestyle, and smart home features, energy-efficient appliances, and aesthetically pleasing enhancements not only attract tenants but also justify higher rental values. Beyond that, these upgrades can reduce maintenance costs and increase tenant satisfaction—making it more likely your tenants will renew their lease.

The best upgrades will depend on your unique single-family rental home. However, there are some general ideas we have that will improve any rental property in Nashville.

Smart Thermostats for Energy Efficiency

Nashville summers can be hot and humid, while winters can get chilly. A smart thermostat helps tenants maintain optimal indoor temperatures while saving on energy costs. Smart thermostats can:

• Automatically adjust the temperature based on schedules or preferences.

• Allow remote control via an app, perfect for busy tenants.
• Reduce energy bills, which makes your property more appealing to cost-conscious renters.

These thermostats are relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and serve as a standout feature that adds modern convenience to your rental property.

Updated Kitchens with Mid-Range Upgrades

The kitchen is a big part of any single-family home, and upgrading it can have a significant impact on tenant appeal. Focus on mid-range upgrades that deliver a modern and clean aesthetic at a reasonable cost. Replace countertops with durable materials like quartz or laminate that mimics stone. It’s also easy to install a stylish yet affordable backsplash to modernize the look.

Most importantly, upgrade appliances to energy-efficient models. These kitchen improvements not only attract tenants but also reduce maintenance and repair costs in the long run.

Smart Locks for Security and Convenience

Nashville renters, just like residents anywhere, value security and convenience. Installing smart locks allows tenants to lock and unlock doors through an app, keypad, or fingerprint—a big step up from traditional keys. This is especially easy to do with a single-family home, because there’s no building key or access point to worry about. Features of smart locks include:

• No lost keys to worry about (or replace).

• Easy tenant turnover, as you can reset codes instead of changing locks.
• Enhanced security, which increases tenant peace of mind.

A smart lock is a small investment that offers big benefits, making your property stand out in a competitive market.

Low-Maintenance Landscaping

Most houses in Nashville have outdoor space, even if it’s a small yard. Well-maintained outdoor spaces are highly appealing to tenants, especially families or individuals who appreciate their own patch of greenery. Focus on landscaping improvements that look good year-round and require minimal upkeep. 

Use native plants like Tennessee Coneflowers or Dwarf Crested Iris for a beautiful and low-maintenance garden. It’s also a good idea to add mulch to keep weeds at bay. Install durable outdoor lighting for safety and ambiance.

These simple changes not only increase curb appeal but also signal that your property is well-cared for, boosting tenant interest.

LED Lighting for Energy Savings

Lighting might seem like a small detail, but its impact is big. Replacing old fixtures with modern LED lights can improve the density and quality of light in the home while saving on energy costs. For investors, this is an affordable enhancement with long-lasting benefits:

• LED lights last longer and reduce the need for frequent replacements.

• They consume significantly less energy, cutting costs for tenants and making your property more attractive.
• They modernize the property, offering a clean and inviting aesthetic.

Better lighting is one of the smartest upgrades owners can make to their single-family Nashville rental homes.

Smart Smoke Detectors for Safety

Safety-conscious tenants will appreciate smart smoke detectors, which send real-time alerts to smartphone apps and reduce the risk of fire damage. Devices like these not only detect smoke but also monitor carbon monoxide levels. By adding these to your rental, you showcase a commitment to your tenants’ safety—a feature that instills trust and responsibility.

Fresh Paint and Modern Finishes

This classic yet effective upgrade is an easy win. A fresh coat of paint in neutral, trendy tones (like soft grays or warm whites) can instantly refresh the look of the home. Add modern finishes like sleek hardware for cabinets, upgraded light switch plates, or even some budget-friendly crown molding to give the property a polished feel without a hefty price tag.

How Smart Upgrades Boost Your Rental Property’s ROI

By implementing these smart upgrades, property owners can expect several significant benefits:

• Higher Rents. Tenants are willing to pay more for modern amenities and efficient systems.

• Faster Tenant Turnovers. Competitive features reduce the time your property sits vacant, resulting in consistent rental income.

• Longer Tenancies. Satisfied tenants are more likely to renew leases, saving on marketing and turnover costs.
• Lower Maintenance Costs. Durable, energy-efficient upgrades reduce wear and tear, leading to fewer repairs.

Single-family homes tend to appreciate very well in Nashville. Give your investment the best chance at success by making smart upgrades that attract and retain tenants and increase value.

For real estate investors in Nashville, smart upgrades can create a more profitable investment experience. These simple, cost-effective improvements help attract tenants more quickly, increase satisfaction, and protect the long-term value of your rental property.

We’d love to tell you more about how specific upgrades can help your Nashville rental property, especially if it’s a single-family home. Maybe a video doorbell or a dedicated home office will make a huge difference in the tenants you attract and the rents you earn. Contact us at Omni Realtors & Property Management.