If your single-family Novato 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 ponder about before making a decision. Depending on your rental property and current state, you’ll need to collect 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. Perhaps the primary reason is knowing that the lawn and other plants will be watered consistently. Many property owners know that a rental property’s value and curb appeal rely heavily on having a neat, healthy-looking yard. Being aware 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 convenience of automatic watering, you do not need to worry if it has been done or not.
Another key benefit would be 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 vital and healthy. This is applicable if you have the right size and kind of sprinkler heads for the several areas of the yard that will need water. Through watering the plants as needed, you may be able to save a lot on your water bill each month.
Having a sprinkler system can be a huge draw for buyers when the time comes for you to sell your property. The reason for this is that only a few people can stomach the hassle of installing their 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 getting a sprinkler system. For example, the cost is a significant reason why a property owner would think twice to install a sprinkler system. Depending on the yard’s size is 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 some or all of the work by yourself, then you can save some cash. 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, contemplate hiring a professional to do it for you.
Along with the initial installation cost, you’ll need to allocate some money for the ongoing maintenance and repair costs associated with a sprinkler system. Like other sections 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 an area with freezing winter temperatures, it would require you to winterize your system each year or risk burst pipes and flooding.
In the end, you get to decide whether your rental property needs a sprinkler system. But with the correct information and perhaps some expert advice, that decision can become less complicated. Consider giving Real Property Management SonoMarin a call for advice about property upgrades, maintenance, and other related topics. Our Novato property managers are ready to help and keep your rental property profitable month after month, year after year. You can reach us at 650-969-4800 or contact us online.
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