5 Smart Rental Property Upgrades Landlords Should Grab
- 16 minutes ago
- 5 min read
Why These Landlord Upgrades Are Perfect for Black Friday & Cyber Monday (and Every Season)
Updated: Here’s what to watch for during Black Friday, Cyber Monday and beyond—these smart upgrades save landlords money any time of year.
In the world of rental property management, smart rental property upgrades can do more than just impress tenants—they can save you time, money, and a lot of future headaches.
Whether you're a first-time landlord or a seasoned investor looking to improve efficiency, these five property upgrades are worth watching for (especially during sales events like Black Friday or Cyber Monday). Each one has a proven return—either in reducing turnover, increasing tenant satisfaction, or cutting down on maintenance and operational costs.
“...now’s the perfect time to invest in tools that make your rental business run smoother."
1. Smart Thermostats
Top thermostats for rental units are more than just energy-savers—they’re smart investments. Landlords can reduce heating and cooling costs, while tenants enjoy more comfort and control. Bonus: many utility companies offer rebates for installing eco-friendly devices.
Why it matters: Energy efficiency is a win-win. Tenants save on utilities, and landlords with utility-included leases reduce overhead. Plus, they’re great selling points for eco-conscious renters.
Benefits for landlords:
Lower heating/cooling costs in vacant units
Remotely monitor or adjust temperature settings
Reduce HVAC strain during extreme seasons
Great for vacation or short term rentals
Bonus:Â Look for rebates from your local utility provider.
Related:Â Should You Allow Tenant Upgrades?
2. Smart Locks & Keyless Entry Systems
The best smart locks for landlords don’t just boost security—they also save time between tenants. Whether you’re managing short-term vacation rentals or long-term leases, upgrading to a smart or rekeyable lock system helps streamline turnovers and reduce lockout headaches.
Why it matters: No more lost keys, lockout emergencies, or paying a locksmith every time a tenant moves out. Smart and rekeyable locks offer landlords more control and flexibility—without sacrificing security.
For vacation rentals, WiFi-enabled smart locks let you remotely update codes, monitor check-ins, and assist guests—all from your phone. For long-term rentals, battery-free rekeyable locks like the Kwikset SmartKey system are ideal—they eliminate power-related lockouts and let you rekey between tenants in seconds without calling a locksmith.
Benefits for landlords:
Quickly change access without replacing the entire lock
Avoid emergency lockout calls
Offer added security and ease for both tenants and vendors
Reduce long-term maintenance costs
Pro Tip:Â For vacation or short-term rentals, look for WiFi-connected models like Schlage Encodeâ„¢ or August Smart Lock. For long-term rentals, battery-free rekeyable locks are often the most reliable and cost-effective choice.
3. Leak Detectors & Smart Water Sensors
One of the best ways to protect your rental property is by detecting problems early. Smart water sensors help landlords catch small leaks before they become costly repairs, especially in basements or under old sinks.
Why it matters: One slow leak can lead to thousands in damage. Smart water sensors can alert you (or your tenant) at the first sign of moisture, helping prevent mold, rot, and expensive repair work.
Benefits for landlords:
Detect water issues before they become disasters
Great for basements, under sinks, and near water heaters
Affordable and easy to install
Automatically shut off water when leak is detected (great for vacant properties)
Related:Â The Best Flooring for Rental Properties
4. Video Doorbells & Outdoor Cameras
For landlords looking to improve security and tenant satisfaction, video doorbells and smart security cameras are an easy win. These upgrades offer both real-time visibility and peace of mind—especially for vaction rentals or small multi-units.
Why it matters: Tenants feel safer when they can see who’s at their door—and you’ll feel better knowing the exterior of your property is being monitored 24/7.
Benefits for landlords:
Deters package theft and vandalism
Increases perceived property value and safety
Lets tenants screen visitors without opening the door
Popular Picks:Â Ring, Arlo, and Google Nest often run bundled promotions during major shopping seasons.
5. Smart LED Lighting Systems
Looking for affordable upgrades to increase property value? Smart LED lighting enhances safety, curb appeal, and energy efficiency. Plus, landlords spend less time replacing bulbs—ideal for entryways, walkways, and common areas.
Why it matters: Well-placed lighting does more than boost curb appeal—it improves security, reduces liability, and cuts long-term maintenance costs. Smart LED systems offer automated scheduling, motion activation, and remote control, making them an ideal low-effort upgrade for landlords.
Benefits for landlords:
Lower utility bills thanks to energy-efficient LED technology
Less maintenance—LED bulbs last up to 25x longer than incandescent, meaning fewer trips to change them
Improved safety and security, especially around walkways, driveways, and entry points
Remote management lets you set timers or activate lighting between showings or during vacancies
Smart Buy Tip: Look for WiFi-enabled outdoor LED fixtures or motion-sensor floodlights. Brands like Ring, Wyze, and Philips Hue outdoor lighting show below often offer bundled discounts during Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Outdoor lighting like the Appear Outdoor Wall Light & Impress Outdoor Wall Light by Philips Hue are stylish options which can be paired with sensors for versatility.
Final Thoughts: Upgrade Smarter, Not Harder
These upgrades aren’t about luxury—they’re about long-term savings, tenant satisfaction, and peace of mind. With Black Friday and Cyber Monday just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to invest in tools that make your rental business run smoother.
Even one or two of these upgrades can reduce your workload and make your properties more competitive in a tight rental market.
Related:Â The Best Rental Paint Colors
FAQs:
Smart Upgrades for Rental Properties
Q: What smart home features do tenants want most?
A: Most tenants appreciate features that improve security, energy savings, and convenience. Smart locks, thermostats, video doorbells, and app-controlled lighting are among the most requested upgrades, especially by Millennial and Gen Z renters.
Q: Are smart locks safe for long-term rentals?
A: Yes—smart locks are safe when properly installed. For long-term leases, battery-free rekeyable locks like Kwikset SmartKey offer reliability and eliminate tech concerns. For short-term rentals, WiFi-enabled options allow remote access and check-in control.
Q: How can landlords save money during Black Friday?
A: Black Friday and Cyber Monday are excellent times to score discounts on smart home devices, LED lighting systems, and even property management software. Sign up for early alerts from brands like Ring, Nest, August, and Schlage to catch bundled deals.
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About the Author Ricardo Reis - Learn About Ricardo
Entrepreneur, Inventor, Investor, Military Veteran. Ricardo is a member of G3 Management & Investments a division of Great Lakes Real Estate and a real estate professional. He is a real estate professional and a successful real estate investor of over 15 years.
NOT INVESTMENT, FINANCIAL, LEGAL, TAX, OR OTHER ADVICE: This blog is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional advice. We do not offer advice, solicitation, recommendations, or endorsements. You are solely responsible for evaluating the information's merits and risks. Always consult a qualified professional before acting.