Smart Renovation Upgrades That Command Higher Rents
Property investors and landlords are always asking the same question: “What upgrades will get me the best return?” With margins tighter, buyers more discerning, and tenants expecting more, the pressure is on to spend wisely—and strategically. The good news is that a few smart renovation choices can dramatically lift your rental yield and property value, especially when executed with precision.
So which upgrades really move the needle? And how do you ensure your renovation spend turns into long-term income?
DL Interiors has helped hundreds of investors across Dublin and surrounding counties navigate this very challenge. From kitchen refits to stairwell enhancements, our team knows exactly which renovations generate the most bang for your buck—both on the rental market and the resale ledger.
Let’s look at the highest-impact upgrades for maximum ROI:
1. Kitchen Transformations
The kitchen is the crown jewel of most residential spaces. A tired layout with outdated appliances immediately limits appeal. DL Interiors delivers full-service kitchen renovations that include custom layouts, premium countertops, modern cabinetry, and energy-efficient appliance integration. These upgrades often result in 10–20% higher rent rates—and add substantial resale appeal.
Example: One investor upgraded a 2-bed rental with a €9,000 kitchen makeover (design, supply, fit). The unit rented for €250 more per month and signed a 24-month lease within 10 days of listing.
2. Bathroom Upgrades
Next to kitchens, bathrooms are the space where design, hygiene, and functionality converge. A sleek, modern bathroom with updated tiling, walk-in showers, and premium fixtures instantly elevates property value. DL Interiors delivers full bathroom overhauls that are easy to clean, water-efficient, and built to impress.
Smart touch: Opt for matching chrome or matte-black finishes across faucets, towel rails, and lighting for a cohesive, high-end look.
3. Flooring That Impresses (and Lasts)
Flooring affects first impressions more than most investors realize. We recommend engineered wood for its durability, herringbone for its visual appeal, and stair runners for safety and style. These options don’t just look good—they reduce wear, lower maintenance costs, and standardize design across units.
4. Bespoke Carpentry and Storage
Built-in wardrobes, window seats, and clever under-stair storage do more than save space—they make a property feel considered. For tenants with families or professionals renting long-term, these features increase livability, reduce clutter, and enhance perceived value.
DL Interiors creates custom carpentry solutions that make the most of every square metre. We use robust, easy-to-clean materials that look great while handling high turnover and frequent use.
5. Stairwell and Common Area Enhancements
For multi-unit buildings, shared spaces impact tenant retention and property branding. Upgraded stairwells with clean lines, new railings, slip-resistant surfaces, and premium finishes signal that the property is well-managed—and worth more.
We offer phased installation to reduce tenant disruption and can replicate designs across entire portfolios.
So how do you decide where to start?
We recommend this simple 3-step process:
- Assess Impact Per Room
Start with what tenants touch and see most often—kitchens, bathrooms, flooring. Prioritize areas that will increase daily satisfaction and reduce maintenance costs. - Set Your Target Rent Increase
Work backward from your target rental rate. If you want to raise the rent by €300/month, budget for a renovation that justifies that jump—usually €8,000–12,000 in upgrades depending on the market. - Choose a Partner Who Manages Everything
Time is money. DL Interiors offers turnkey renovation services for property investors. We design, supply, and fit every element—and manage all trades. That means no juggling contractors, no scheduling chaos, and no cost surprises.
Let’s talk numbers. Based on client data from 2023–2024, here’s what smart upgrades can return:
| Upgrade | Avg. Investment | Avg. Rent Increase | Payback Time |
| Kitchen Renovation | €9,000 | €200–€350/mo | 24–36 months |
| Bathroom Renovation | €6,500 | €100–€250/mo | 18–30 months |
| Flooring (entire unit) | €5,000 | €100–€150/mo | 20–24 months |
| Carpentry/Storage | €4,000 | €75–€125/mo | 18–20 months |
| Stairwell Upgrade | €7,500 | Portfolio-level brand/rent boost | 24–30 months |
The real value isn’t just higher rents—it’s faster lets, longer tenancies, better reviews, and stronger resale positioning.
And don’t forget: All DL Interiors renovations include:
- Guaranteed fixed pricing—no hidden costs
- Full-service project management
- Premium materials sourced for durability
- Fast execution with minimal downtime
- 2-year workmanship warranty
If you’re ready to level up your rental returns without the stress, we’re ready to help.
Explore our kitchen renovations and other high-ROI upgrades—and discover how strategic design pays off.
