Zodiac Rentals

This 9-unit complex had it all - unit mix, location, and layout but with its almost inexistent curb-appeal, uninspiring paint, and poor landscaping it needed some serious TLC. The interiors weren’t any better with bland white walls - some with holes in them, damaged doors, and missing cabinets.

The complex was reasonably well run but wasn’t being marketed as well as it could have been and some of its strongest features were not highlighted at all. Moreover, it had fallen behind the neighboring properties in terms of its visual appeal and charm causing the vicious cycle of bad tenants driving away existing or prospective good tenants leading to further worse new tenants.

A fresh coat of 3-tone paint including bright red doors immediately raised the profile of the complex grabbing the attention of anyone who passed by. Next, we identified trouble tenants and refused to renew their leases when they ran out, something that often involved going to court. Each vacated unit was then completely renovated with new 2-tone paint, backsplashes, sometimes appliances, blinds, and other finishing touches. We also got the roof replaced on 3 of the 4 buildings.

Systematically, we have been able to turn around 6 of the 9 units with good- quality adequately screened tenants paying competitive market rents while also putting down reasonable security deposits and pet fees.

While some work still remains in one of the units, most of the hardwork is behind us and seeing it all come together, given the scope and scale of the project, has been quite thrilling.