Why Upgrade Your Rental Property?
There are many reasons to upgrade rental properties, including necessity - sometimes properties deteriorate to the point where they're un-rentable. Usually however, motivations for upgrades include wanting to:
1) Attract high-calibre tenants: A property will always earn more and stay in better condition with high-calibre tenants - they pay more rent, pay on time, and maintain properties better. 
2) Maximise returns: Upgrades usually improve rental yield, provided you don't overcapitalise. Choose improvements where costs can be recovered from increased rent within a reasonable timeframe. 
3) Optimise resale value: If renovating to improve resale prospects, choose improvements that will at least recoup costs. A local sales agent can advise what upgrades are likely to achieve this.
4) Boost tax deductions: Some work is fully tax deductible in the same year - necessary repairs, for example. Some other improvements are depreciable over the life of the item. Your accountant can advise on the rules, if tax deductibility is important.
5) Avoid emergency maintenance costs: Some work can't be delayed, without risking greater costs. Deal with jobs like gutter cleaning, roof repairs, pruning large branches, removing invasive roots, plumbing and electrical repairs promptly - otherwise you risk much more expensive repairs or even liability for injury. 
Best Rental Property Upgrades For Return on Investment
There are a number of quick, easy ways to enhance a property's street appeal and presentation that are also likely to deliver a reasonable return on investment. 
Easy outdoor strategies include:
1) Laying fresh mulch, weeding driveways/gardens, planting annuals 
2) Painting the front door, cleaning pavers/driveways
3) Adding entry lighting/security features
4) Creating extra car bays/undercover parking
5) Adding a pergola/deck 
6) Child/pet friendly fencing.
Indoor strategies include:
1) replace dated window coverings - inexpensive blinds or ready-to-hang curtains work well 
2) repaint in light colours for a bright, clean, spacious look
3) add stylish light fittings or upgrade globes
4) update floor coverings - choose vinyl, laminates, timber or hard-wearing carpet, depending on property type/value
5) install air-conditioning - even a single split-system increases applications
6) refresh kitchens - update cupboards/tiles, replace older ovens, install a dishwasher
7) update bathroom shower-curtains/taps, paint bathroom tiles, replace or paint vanity doors
8) Install built-ins or add shelving and rails in bedroom recesses
9) Make high-speed broadband accessible
Always ensure everything is sparkling clean - windows, ceilings, walls, floors!
So What Should I Do?
First ask your property manager what rental property upgrades will best achieve your objectives, whatever they are.
Remember, renovations become challenging when labour or materials are in short supply, so assess what work you can do yourself. DIY reduces the risk of delays and budget blowouts. 
Check out whether materials you need are available now - buy local where possible as overseas orders are notoriously slow.
If using contractors, a written quote or contract, and careful project management, can help to minimise delays and cost increases.
Property managers have reliable trade networks, and can help make the project less stressful. They may be able to assist with project management.
Speak to your property manager today if you have any questions!
Source: weloverentals.com