If your single-family Palatine rental home is the same as the rest, it will usually have a yard and some grass, trees, or other plants that need to be watered regularly. If your rental property does not have an automatic sprinkler system, you may be contemplating buying one. So should you install sprinkler systems for your rental home? There are pros and cons that you need to contemplate before making a final decision. Depending on your rental property and condition, you should get as much data as possible to help you decide if an automatic sprinkler system is ideal for your place.
Pros: Sprinkler System Benefits
There are a ton of good reasons to consider having an automatic sprinkler system installed for your rental property. Maybe the biggest reason would be knowing that the lawn and other plants will be watered consistently. Everyone knows that a rental property’s value and curb appeal depend on having a neat, healthy-looking yard. Resting in the knowledge that your rental’s lawn and plants are being watered accurately and consistently can help ease the burden for both you and your tenant in terms of property maintenance. Aside from the relative ease of automatic watering, you do not need to keep remembering if it’s been done or not.
Some other important benefits to remember include the possibility of lower utility bills and a boost in your property’s resale value. Using an automated sprinkler system the right way can help save on the water needed to keep your yard vibrant and healthy. This is true especially if you have the right size and kind of sprinkler heads for the various areas of the yard that will need water. Through watering the plants as needed, you can save a lot on your water bill each month.
When you sell your property, a sprinkler system can be a huge draw for buyers. The reason for this is that only a few people can stomach the hassle of placing a sprinkler system. So if you have one ready, you may be able to sell your property for a higher price.
Cons: Sprinkler System Drawbacks
However, along with all the pros, you should get to know the potential downsides of purchasing a sprinkler system. For example, the cost is for sure a big reason why a property owner would think twice to install a sprinkler system. Depending on the size of the yard and what kind of sprinkler system it will need, the installation cost can cost you thousands of dollars.
If you are someone who can do the work by yourself, then you can save money. However, you should be sure to have the time to quickly do the job. You also need to be sure that you’ve got everything you need so that you can plan and install the entire system without being a bother to your tenant if you have one. Otherwise, hire a professional to do it for you.
Along with the initial installation cost, you’ll need to consider and budget for the ongoing maintenance and repair costs associated with a sprinkler system. Like other aspects of your property, a sprinkler system will need to be maintained to keep it in good condition year after year. If your property is in a location with freezing winter temperatures, you’ll also need to winterize your system every year or risk burst pipes and flooding.
At the end of the day, you get to decide whether your rental property needs a sprinkler system. But with the correct data and perhaps some expert advice, that decision can become less complicated. Consider giving Real Property Management Chicago Group a call for advice about property upgrades, maintenance, and other related topics. Our Palatine property managers are ready to assist you and keep your rental property profitable month after month, year after year. You can reach us at 312-265-0660 or contact us online.
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