Top Investment Property Upgrades to Increase Rent and Equity

Investors

By Natalie Boyle, REALTOR®, Founder of Verso Homes (DRE #01329012)

Published July 13, 2025

I meet many investors who avoid property upgrades and maintenance to maximize profit. But in today’s market, that’s a big mistake! With rents rising, making the right property upgrades is key to maximizing rental income.

Client Story: I recently partnered with Bethany Campbell of The Posh Home to revamp a rental property in original condition. Thanks to Bethany’s design expertise, we increased rent by over 50% and boosted equity by $50,000!

1. Fresh Paint

Paint is the top upgrade to increase both rental income and equity. The right colors make your property feel spacious and inviting, attracting higher profits.

Freshly painted home exterior with modern colors

Pro Tip: Maximize curb appeal by choosing paint colors that complement your home’s architecture. For example, modern farmhouse styles work well with whites and grays that require less maintenance.

Paint Color Recommendations:

Exterior Stucco: Whisper White – DEW340
Siding: Silver Spoon – DE6366
Doors & Window Trim: Black Tie – DE6357
Interior Walls: Foggy Day – DE6226
Doors, Ceilings & Baseboards: Igloo – DEW379

Potential cost: $2,000 – $5,000

2. Curb Appeal Tips

Add Vinyl Shutters!

An inexpensive way to boost curb appeal is adding vinyl shutters. They aren’t right for every home but can make a big impact.

If you’re up for some landscaping, grass seed, fertilizer, flowers, and shrubs can enhance your property’s exterior dramatically.

Pro Tip: Opt for local drought-tolerant plants to reduce water costs.

Potential Cost: $80 – $300

3. Flooring Updates

Vinyl wood flooring is tenant-friendly, durable, and affordable. Avoid carpet in rentals to maximize income and equity.

We recommend lighter wood tones to brighten the space and conceal wear. Flooring from Simple Floors in Orange offers great selection and prices.

Pro Tip: Avoid dark floors to make your rental feel larger and brighter.

Potential Cost: $3,000 – $10,000+

4. Kitchen Upgrades

Before and after investment property exterior by Verso Homes Modern kitchen remodel by Verso Homes

We upgraded this kitchen by adding a dishwasher, new cabinets, countertops, hardware, and appliances, which significantly increased rental income and equity.

Pro Tip: If cabinets are in good shape, paint them white and upgrade hardware to high-quality options like Emtek to avoid rust and wear.

Buying stainless steel appliances as a package can save money. Choose neutral pre-fabricated quartz countertops to conceal stains.

Potential Cost: $1,000 – $15,000

5. Bathroom Upgrades

Bathroom remodel by Verso Homes

Reglazing showers and tubs can make bathrooms sparkle at a low cost. For high-end rentals, consider replacing tile with classic options like white subway tile from Bedrosian’s Tile.

New fixtures and hardware also refresh the bathroom’s look.

Potential Cost: $300 – $400 per bathroom

6. New Ceiling Fans

An easy, affordable update is installing new ceiling fans. Lowes offers great options on sale, sometimes as low as $39!

Replacing old fans refreshes your property’s look and appeal.

Final Thought: Thanks to expert guidance and the right upgrades, I increased rental income by over 50% and boosted home equity by $50,000. Hiring the right professionals makes all the difference.

Check out other fun ways to update your property at The Posh Home.. Exterior remodel before and after by Verso Homes

Listed below are a few more tips for selling your home:

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Natalie Boyle
REALTOR®, Founder of Verso Homes (DRE #01329012)
Over 15 years helping South OC homeowners discover their perfect community.
Learn more about Natalie →