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Security Deposit-Friendly Renovation Ideas to Upgrade Your DC Rental

Nest DC

Even as a renter, you can make your temporary digs unique to you. We all want to make the most of our space, and as a tenant, you may feel limited in your renovation options. The good news is- you don’t have to be! There are so many ways to make your property your own without upsetting the owner or breaking any clauses in your lease agreement. Reversible renovations is the name of the game! We have all the tips and tricks for making your space well… your space!


Disclaimer: As a tenant in DC, you have to be especially careful to follow the terms of your lease to avoid having your security deposit dinged upon move-out. Property owners can and will charge to revert their property back to the way it was before you moved in. Even if you think the updates you're making ultimately benefit the value of the property (why would the next tenant NOT want all your perfectly placed mounted shelves or lux new curtains???), this is a case where you should always ask permission first. Up-front communication with the property owner is always for the best, and you never know when the owner might just agree to help pay for some renovations that you offer to make yourself. Without explicit permission to make permanent changes, be sure you can undo any improvements upon move-out and get your security deposit back in full!

Paint Refresh

Choose a neutral that feels like you. Keeping the color neutral will make it easier to return the room to the original color (darker color means more coats of paint to cover it up) and also ups the likelihood that the property owner will be ok with that color staying in place after you leave. We recommend choosing an off-white or grey to play it safe. Check out Sherwin Williams' expert neutral color picks here!


Pro Tip: Always paint a sample swatch in the room you plan to paint before committing to a color. Paint can look different on a wall and in certain lights than expected! More on that here.


Simple Swaps

This seemingly small and inexpensive change can make a big difference, especially in a smaller space. Replacing outdated or even just plain ugly hardware and fixtures with updated, “authentic” alternatives can truly shift the feel of a property. Think cabinet handles, knobs, shower heads, toilet seats, light fixtures, switch plates, and more. If you’re not loving something that is easy to swap, make the change while you’re renting the space and take it with you wherever you go next. We promise it will be worth it! Just remember to store the original hardware somewhere safe, so it is available to be swapped back come move-out time.


Intentional Decor

Adding decor is an obvious way to make a space your own, but there are specific, reversible decor choices that can really upgrade a space without causing concern from the property owner. Some of our favorites? Swapping out the original blinds for something fresh, adding plants to the space, adding floating shelving to the walls, bringing mirrors and art into the space, and layering fun rugs on the floor. All of these decor options are both reversible and transformative!


Pro Tip: Avoid putting holes in your walls by using removable items like command strips and hooks!


You shouldn’t feel limited in your design choices just because you’re renting. You don’t have to own the space to make it your own. You can make upgrades, feel at home, and get that security deposit back with these reversible yet impactful renovations. Always review your lease agreement prior to making changes to see if anything is completely off-limits. As property management experts, we are always looking for ways to help both owners and tenants make the most of their rental experience. 

Have any reversible renovations that you’d like to share with fellow DC tenants? Comment below!

 

For more happy home content, we suggest checking out our blog on organizing small spaces!

Co-living Community Manager

By Sarah Jackson • 03 Apr, 2024
Classification: Full-Time, Exempt Location: 87 Florida Ave NW Office and Portfolio Properties Office Hours: 8:30AM-5:30PM, M-F - required occasional after hours for project management of emergency issues Position Objective: This position is uniquely qualified to handle all aspects of property management for a specific set of properties and clients within the Flock portfolio. With exceptional customer service, time management, and knowledge of the industry, this role ensures the delivery of best-in-class property management by caring for our client’s investments and ensuring that their assets are well cared for. There will be a continuous focus on the leasing, maintenance, and finance portion of the work while also ensuring that our residents receive the highest level of service. Success in this position depends on the effective management of our properties and delivery to the Nest DC standards. How to Apply Interested and enthusiastic applicants should apply and upload a resume, cover letter, and salary requirements via the Nest Career Center. -No phone calls please. Applications accepted until position filled. -Please note that only those individuals whose qualifications match the current needs of the organization will be considered applicants and will receive responses from Flock. -Flock provides a very competitive compensation and benefits package. -Flock is an equal opportunity employer. To learn more about our Flock Benefits and Perks, visit https://flock-dc.com/careers
Nest DC will help you choose whether it is better to hire a property manager or self-manage.

Hiring a Property Manager vs. Self-Managing: What's Better?

By Lydia La Motta • 23 Feb, 2024
When managing rental properties, housing providers often face a crucial decision: hiring a property manager or handling the responsibilities themselves. This choice significantly affects the upkeep, profitability, and success of their rental business. While some housing providers prefer the hands-on self-management approach, others go for the expertise professional property management services offer. In this article, Nest DC will help you explore the considerations involved in both options, helping you make informed decisions that align with their goals and resources. Responsibilities of Housing Providers Before deciding whether to manage your properties yourself or hire a professional, understanding the critical responsibilities of a housing provider is crucial. Here's a breakdown of the essential duties you'll need to handle, regardless of your management approach: Keeping Your Properties Top-Notch  Safety and Habitability: As a housing provider, you need to ensure that your property is safe, livable, and well-maintained. Additionally, you need to respond promptly to repair requests, conduct regular inspections, and schedule upkeep tasks. Building Strong Tenant Relationships: You should create positive living experiences for your tenants. Be accessible for their concerns, clearly communicate lease terms and policies, and handle disputes fairly and respectfully. Ensuring Steady Cash Flow Timely Rent Collection: You need to implement clear procedures for rent payments, enforce deadlines consistently, and follow legal protocols for late payments.

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By Lydia La Motta • 12 Feb, 2024
Salary: $120k + additional performance based awards Classification: Full-Time, Exempt Location: 87 Florida Ave NW Office and Portfolio Properties Position Objective: The Chief Business Officer tends to the fundamentals of the business: systems, company performance, data management and analytics. With a leadership team, you ensure smart growth design and operations and work within EOS (Entrepreneur Operating System) to ensure continuity and accountability across leadership and throughout the organization. We measure progress using EOS models. Those measures are negotiated and agreed upon. We are ready to grow but, we are measured in our approach. We’ve rushed things before so intentionality is essential. We have every ingredient for success with the right Chief Business Officer. What is profit for Flock and Nest? Great jobs, local procurement impact, work life balance, justice. Our community is better with us. Plus profit. The Chief Business Officer ensures we balance these priorities. Throughout 2023, Nest re-designed our service delivery model to achieve more efficiency, profitability and strength of reputation. This redesign is complemented with investments in brand strategy, marketing and growth models and a strong vendor partners. Sales, marketing, communications, operations and finance roll up to the CBO with links to legal and HR and our core service: property management. This executive tracks industry trends in real time and leverages insights to capitalize on growth opportunities and manage risk. How to Apply Interested and enthusiastic applicants should apply and upload a resume, cover letter, and salary requirements via the Flock Career Center. -No phone calls please. Applications accepted until position filled. -Please note that only those individuals whose qualifications match the current needs of the organization will be considered applicants and will receive responses from Flock. -Flock provides a very competitive compensation and benefits package. -Flock is an equal opportunity employer. To learn more about our Flock Benefits and Perks, visit https://flock-dc.com/careers
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