Five Tips for Fresh Property Rehabs in 2024

When it comes to property rehab, the old saying "beauty is in the eye of the beholder" holds true. The choices you make in terms of decor and design can transform a space and greatly impact its marketability.

While personal taste plays a vital role, staying updated with evolving trends is essential to keep your property looking fresh and appealing to potential buyers or renters. Let’s look at five tips to ensure your property rehabs shine in 2024.

1. Go au natural with colors and accents

Your choice of color palette sets the tone for your property's overall design aesthetic. In 2024, earthy tones, like various shades of green, rich browns, and warm terra cotta, are all the rage. These colors create a warm and inviting atmosphere and have broad appeal among renters and buyers, potentially speeding up the rental or sale process.

And here’s a little insider secret: Properties that dial up the nature vibe with biophilic design—yes, we’re talking those earthy tones, natural materials, and letting in the light—don’t just look good; they feel good. They’re the properties that list higher because, let’s face it, who doesn’t want to live somewhere that feels like a retreat from the world?

Embracing these trends is more than just a design choice; it's about creating spaces that boost well-being and connect us to the great outdoors. And right now, that’s exactly what the market’s loving.

Here are some ways to incorporate warm, neutral tones and natural elements:

• Natural Wood Accents: Think furniture, open shelving, or even a statement wall piece made from the real deal—wood. It’s like inviting the forest inside for tea, and who wouldn’t love that?
• Terracotta Planters: Greenery + earthy pots = magic. It’s a simple formula that breathes life and color into any corner, making it pop with vibrancy and warmth.
• Stone and Ceramic Touches: Sprinkle a bit of the outdoors throughout with stone, ceramic, and terracotta accents. It’s all about those subtle nods to nature that make a space feel grounded.
• Artwork and Decor: Choose fixtures that echo the great outdoors or abstract works swathed in earth tones to stitch the look together seamlessly.

By thoughtfully integrating these elements into your real estate investment property, you can create an environment that aligns with the latest design trends and appeals to a wide audience, potentially leading to a quicker and more profitable sale or rental process.

2. Embrace your inner maximalist

In the bustling streets of urban jungles or the heart of creativity-rich neighborhoods, letting your property’s inner maximalist shine could be your golden ticket. While the clean lines of minimalism have their charm, a dash (or heap!) of maximalism might just be what sets your property apart from the crowd.

But, a little whisper of wisdom—maximalism isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s about matching the vibe to the property and its locale. Done right, it’s not just decor. It’s a transformation, turning spaces into experiences that potential buyers or renters don’t just see but feel.

Maximalism is the art of more: more colors, more patterns, more textures, and an eclectic blend that tells a story. Think of it as the property dressing in its Sunday best every day. Jewel tones that sparkle, patterns that dance together, and textures that invite touch bring each room to life in a way that’s nothing short of a celebration.

Now, here’s the kicker for keeping it universally appealing: balance. Weave in those bold, maximalist strokes where they sing the loudest and pair them with quieter, neutral corners. This yin and yang approach lets prospective buyers or renters imagine their life tapestry in the space, offering them the vibrancy of maximalist living with pockets of tranquility. Picture a living room with a kaleidoscope of color and pattern, balanced by a kitchen and bathroom whispering serenity.

Here are ways to subtly incorporate maximalism into your property:

• Bold Colors and Patterns: Use vibrant and bold colors along with contrasting patterns to create a dynamic and inviting atmosphere.
• Mix and Match: Combine different styles and eras, from vintage to modern and everything in between, to craft a space that tells a story.
• Texture Overload: Integrate a variety of textures through fixtures and accents to add sophistication and comfort.
• Florals and Art: Use bold floral patterns and expressive art to inject life and color into spaces, making them feel personal and lived-in.

By thoughtfully embracing maximalism where it fits and balancing it with neutral spaces, real estate investors can create properties that appeal to a wide audience yet stand out in the marketplace. This approach can enhance a property's marketability and appeal, potentially leading to a quicker sale or rental.

3. Smart homes bring the future to your fingertips

The allure of living in a home that not only looks beautiful but also incorporates cutting-edge technology is undeniable. As we move further into the digital age, smart home technology is no longer just a luxury—it's becoming an expectation among homebuyers and renters alike. Real estate investors who recognize this trend and incorporate smart tech into their properties can significantly enhance the marketability and appeal of their investments.

This is more than a trend for you, the savvy real estate investor. It’s a golden opportunity to elevate your property from just another listing to the talk of the town. Integrating smart technology isn’t just about adding value; it’s about crafting an experience that screams modern luxury and effortless living.

Imagine a home that looks like it stepped out of a magazine and acts like it’s been personalized for the Jetsons. Voice commands that dim the lights, thermostats that know you’re on your way home, and windows that adjust their tint with the touch of a button are the touches that turn a house into a sanctuary.

And let’s talk about AI, shall we? It’s not just for your phone or car anymore. AI-driven home systems can adapt to the rhythms of daily life, creating a living space that anticipates needs, conserves energy, and even makes sure your home is just the right temperature when you walk in. It’s not just smart; it’s thoughtful.

Let’s look at some of the benefits:

• Increased Property Value: Smart homes often command higher prices or rental rates due to their advanced features and conveniences. Investing in smart technology can offer a significant return through increased property valuation.
• Enhanced Marketability: As the demand for smart homes grows, properties equipped with these technologies stand out in the market. They attract a tech-savvy demographic looking for homes that offer a higher standard of living.
• Energy Efficiency: Many smart home technologies focus on improving energy efficiency, which can be a strong selling point. Energy-saving features appeal to environmentally conscious buyers and promise long-term savings on utility bills.
• Security and Safety: Smart security systems, including cameras, motion detectors, and automated locks, add an extra layer of safety to a property, making it more appealing to families and individuals prioritizing security.
• Future-Proofing: As technology continues to evolve, properties that already incorporate smart features are better positioned to adapt to new advancements, ensuring they remain desirable in the long term.

Incorporating smart tech into your property rehab

• Start with universal appeal features like smart thermostats, lights, and security systems that offer convenience and safety.
• Consider more advanced options like smart glass for windows, which can improve energy efficiency and privacy with the flick of a switch.
• Ensure that any smart technology you integrate is user-friendly and accessible to people with varying levels of tech-savviness.
• Highlight these smart features in your marketing efforts to attract buyers and renters looking for a modern, connected home.

By integrating smart home technology into your properties, you can enhance the living experience for occupants and position their investments at the forefront of the market. As smart tech continues to evolve and become more ingrained in our daily lives, properties equipped with these modern conveniences will lead the way in appeal, value, and functionality.

4. Multi-generational remodels: Adapting homes for every age

The concept of multi-generational living isn’t just a fleeting trend. It’s a transformative shift in the real estate landscape. As economic realities, the longing for tighter family connections, and the quest for a sustainable lifestyle converge, homes that welcome multiple generations under one roof are becoming the new standard of living.

The rise in demand for multi-generational properties in 2024 reflects a deeper societal transformation. Families are seeking spaces that not only provide a roof but also nurture bonds, celebrate togetherness, and support each member’s unique needs. Every generation deserves a corner that feels like their own sanctuary, from toddlers to elders.

As you think about your next investment, imagine properties that do more than accommodate. Envision creating homes where open living areas invite family gatherings, adaptable layouts offer privacy when needed, and accessible features ensure everyone, regardless of age or ability, moves with ease. This approach isn’t just about future-proofing your investments; it’s about leading with vision, empathy, and innovation.

Key features of multi-generational homes

• Flexible Living Spaces: Homes should offer versatile areas that can serve multiple purposes, for example, playrooms that can be converted into bedrooms or home offices that can double as guest rooms.
• Private Suites: Incorporating self-contained suites with private entrances, kitchenettes, and bathrooms can provide independence for older family members while keeping them close.
• Accessible Design: Making homes more accessible for elderly residents is crucial. This can include walk-in showers, grab bars in bathrooms, and minimal threshold floors to accommodate mobility challenges.
• Common Areas: Large, open-plan kitchens and living areas that encourage family interaction are essential, along with outdoor spaces where everyone can gather.
• Mudrooms to Playrooms: Recognizing the importance of organized spaces, mudrooms equipped with ample storage can help manage clutter, while playrooms provide a safe area for children to play and learn.

Benefits for real estate investors:

• Broad Appeal: By offering features that cater to multi-generational living, investors can attract a wider range of buyers and renters, from young families to those looking to care for aging parents.
• Increased Value: Homes that provide the space and amenities for multi-generational living can command higher prices or rental rates due to their enhanced functionality and appeal.
• Future Flexibility: Properties designed with flexibility in mind can easily adapt to changing family dynamics or preferences, making them a lasting investment.

Adapting your property for multi-generational living

Consider renovations that add self-contained units or adaptable spaces to existing properties. Focus on universal design principles to ensure your property is accessible to individuals of all ages and mobility levels. Highlight the benefits of multi-generational living in your marketing efforts, emphasizing privacy, flexibility, and family bonding.

As families look for homes that can accommodate their evolving needs, real estate investors who anticipate and respond to the trend of multi-generational living will find their properties in high demand. By creating spaces that offer comfort, privacy, and flexibility for all generations, investors can maximize their property's appeal and value in today's diverse housing market.

5. The heart of the home: Kitchen design innovations that add value to your rehabbed property

The kitchen often serves as the heart of the home, a place not just for cooking but for gathering, dining, and making memories. That’s why staying ahead of kitchen design trends is crucial for real estate investors looking to enhance the appeal and functionality of their properties. In 2024, kitchen design trends emphasize sustainability, technology, and spaces that cater to both aesthetic appeal and practical needs. Let’s take a look at how these trends can benefit real estate investors.

Eco-chic materials

The green wave is here to stay, with kitchen designs leaning heavily into sustainability. Think bamboo floors, countertops gleaming with recycled glass, and cabinetry that brings reclaimed wood into the modern era. These choices aren’t just good for the planet—they’re great for your wallet, reducing utility costs and elevating your property’s appeal to those eco-conscious souls among us.

Smart kitchen technology

Smart technology integration is transforming kitchens into highly efficient and convenient spaces. Features like smart faucets that conserve water, appliances that can be controlled remotely, and lighting systems that adjust based on the time of day are all appealing additions. For real estate investors, incorporating smart kitchen technology can significantly increase a property's marketability, attracting tech-savvy buyers and renters looking for modern conveniences.

Multi-functional islands

Kitchen islands are evolving beyond traditional uses, becoming multifunctional hubs equipped with built-in appliances, storage solutions, and dining areas. Islands designed to facilitate social interaction, meal prep, and casual dining can make a kitchen stand out. By incorporating islands that offer versatility and enhanced functionality, investors can appeal to families and individuals who value both the social and practical aspects of kitchen design.

Bold colors and textures

While classic neutrals have their place, bold is where the future’s at. Picture vibrant backsplashes, statement cabinets, and countertops that mix materials and textures for an unforgettable visual impact. These are the kitchens that stand out in a listing, promising a space that’s as unique as your potential buyers or renters.

Open shelving and glass front cabinets

Say goodbye to the closed-off cabinetry of yesteryears and hello to open shelving and glass-front cabinets that breathe openness and sophistication into your kitchen space. This trend not only makes for an inviting kitchen but also a visually larger one, allowing personal touches to shine through in a way that’s both practical and chic.

How these trends benefit investors:

• Increased Property Value: Up-to-date kitchens can significantly increase a property's value and selling price.
• Enhanced Appeal: Modern, functional kitchens attract a broader range of potential buyers and renters.
• Competitive Edge: Properties featuring the latest kitchen trends stand out in a crowded real estate market.

Incorporating these kitchen design trends into your investment properties can create spaces that are beautiful, functional, and highly desirable to today’s market. As real estate investors look to the future, keeping an eye on these trends and understanding how to apply them can make all the difference in achieving successful outcomes.

Elevating your property investments with a trusted lending partner

Navigating the vibrant world of 2024’s design trends is thrilling, but let's be real: transforming those inspirations into tangible, value-boosting updates in your properties can stretch your budget. This is where finding a trusted lending partner becomes invaluable. Kiavi specializes in providing real estate investors with the financial support needed to make their rehab projects a reality, including those stylish and functional updates that are so crucial in today’s market.

Kiavi understands the unique needs of real estate investors, offering Fix-and-Flip loans designed to fund not just the purchase of investment properties but also the renovations that will truly set them apart. With competitive rates and fast, reliable funding, Kiavi aims to empower investors like you to act swiftly in a competitive market, ensuring you don’t miss out on opportunities to increase property value through strategic upgrades.

Why partner with Kiavi?

• Tailored Solutions: Kiavi’s fix and flip lending solutions are designed with real estate investors in mind, offering the flexibility needed to meet the specific demands of each project, whether it’s a comprehensive kitchen remodel or a full property overhaul.
• Efficiency and Speed: Understanding that time is of the essence in real estate investing, Kiavi streamlines the loan process, providing fast approvals and funding to get your project moving without unnecessary delays in as few as 10 days.
• Expert Support: Beyond financial assistance, Kiavi offers the expertise and guidance of a team that understands the real estate market and the impact of current design trends on property values. This support can be crucial in making informed decisions about your investments.

Making your vision a reality

Investing in property upgrades like those seen in 2024’s design trends not only enhances the functionality and aesthetic appeal of your properties but also maximizes their marketability and value. However, the vision for a beautifully updated kitchen with sustainable materials, smart technology, and multifunctional spaces requires more than just insight—it requires the capital to bring these ideas to life.

Kiavi’s commitment to supporting real estate investors with tailored, reliable financing options makes it an ideal partner for those looking to navigate the complexities of property renovation and resale. By leveraging Kiavi’s lending solutions, investors can confidently pursue