If you’re managing or owning rental property and still ignoring green upgrades, you’re leaving both money and demand on the table.
Renters want to feel good about where they live. People are paying more attention to sustainability, especially younger tenants and long-term renters. Properties that offer eco-friendly features stand out in crowded rental markets, not just because they’re greener, but because they’re cheaper to live in and more comfortable overall.
Now, as a landlord or property owner, if you’re footing the bill for utilities, eco upgrades lower your operating costs. If the tenant pays utilities, these upgrades still make your listing more attractive, which helps with tenant retention and justifies competitive rent. Either way, you’re winning.
Solar Panels
Okay, solar panels aren’t cheap at the start. But they don’t stay expensive forever. What most people miss is how fast they start paying for themselves.
Once they’re up, your electricity bills start dropping a lot. As in 50 to 90% reductions, depending on where you live and how much sun your roof catches. And on top of that, you might qualify for federal tax credits or local rebates.
They also have a lifespan of around 25 years, and most pay themselves off within 6–8 years. After that, it’s mostly just savings. Plus, solar panels increase your property value, sometimes by over 4%, according to Zillow.
And if you’re renting out in an area where people care about sustainability, a solar panel energy efficiency upgrade is something that makes your place stand out, especially for long-term tenants.
Low-Flow Fixtures
This is one of those things that people completely underestimate. Low-flow showerheads, faucets, and dual-flush toilets are simple swaps, but they can drop your water usage by 20-30%. That’s a big deal, especially if you cover water bills for your rental.
Even if tenants pay utilities, it makes your place more attractive because you’re basically helping them save money without them lifting a finger.
Low-flow doesn’t mean low pressure either. Modern versions still give a solid shower experience without flooding the bathroom. You also avoid water waste, which helps in areas with usage restrictions.
Native Landscaping
If you’re still dealing with a traditional grass lawn, you’re fighting a losing battle. Grass is high maintenance, sucks up tons of water, and doesn’t really offer anything unless you’ve got kids playing football out there. Swapping it for native plants and drought-tolerant landscaping is not just smarter but also easier to manage long-term.
Native plants are adapted to your local weather. They don’t need constant watering, they survive in your soil, and they naturally resist local pests. Add mulched beds and drip irrigation systems instead of sprinklers, and now you’re not just reducing water usage, you’re also cutting down on how often you have to do yard work or hire someone for it.
Plus, native landscaping is what eco-conscious renters actually look for. They’re not just scanning your place for a recycling bin. They’re noticing if the property respects the environment at all.
Go Green With Help from Jennette Properties!
Trends come and go, but green energy isn’t just some passing fad. Eco-conscious guests and tenants are part of a growing group that actively looks for places that reflect their values. They care about sustainability, and they notice the small details, so you should not let another lease cycle go by without making these upgrades.
At Jennette Properties, we guide rental property owners in making green improvements that make the most sense for their property.
Eco-conscious tenants are already looking; make sure your property stands out. Book a strategy session with our team, and let’s turn your rental into a high-demand, low-expense property.
