Before & After: Standing Out in Nashville’s Rental Market

Nashville’s rental market is one of the most competitive in the country. For long-time property owners it takes more than location to stand out; presentation is just as important. The house on Elkins had been a steady rental for years but it was overdue for a refresh. Our strategy was to focus on low-cost changes that protected the profit margin by highlighting the home’s best features to make it irresistible to new renters.

Kitchens are often the heart of a rental decision and at the house on Elkins this one needed to make a stronger impression. Fresh paint, a new backsplash, updated countertops and simple fixture changes including a range hood, faucet and cabinet knobs, gave the space a design flair without the cost of a full remodel. To create height and a touch of luxury, backsplash tile was carried above the window over the sink, a small detail that made the ceilings feel taller and the room more elevated overall.

Bathrooms often set the tone for the whole property. A tired, dated bath can make an otherwise solid home feel overlooked. By introducing a new vanity, fresh palette and more cohesive finishes we made this bathroom feel bright and move-in ready.

A dated palette and worn finishes made the bathroom feel dim.

Light, cohesive finishes and a new vanity transformed it into a fresh and inviting space.

First impressions begin at the curb, so we focused on a few strategic updates to elevate the exterior. The dormer was painted to match the body of the house, creating a more cohesive look. A few new shrubs softened the entry and added life to the landscaping. The front door and adjacent windows were painted black, giving them contrast against the trim and drawing the eye toward the entry. Finally, updated house numbers and a potted plant provided a crisp finishing touch. Together these small changes created a stronger street presence that signaled to potential renters that the home was well cared for.

Throughout the rest of the home, small details carried the refresh forward. Updated paint, thoughtful lighting choices and attention to detail made each room feel consistent and intentional.

The results speak for themselves. After the refresh, the home rented for $4008 more per year or 33% annual return on investment. While the improving Nashville market helped, these updates ensured the property didn’t just keep pace with the competition - it stood out.

Transformations don’t always require a full-scale renovation. Sometimes the smartest move is knowing where to refresh and where to hold back. With thoughtful updates, this rental went from overlooked to in-demand and showed that in Nashville’s crowded market, design matters.