When renovating a rental property, the goal is simple: modern finishes that attract quality tenants, hold up to daily use, and do not break the budget. After hundreds of rental renovations across Los Angeles, here are the five finishes we recommend most.
1. Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) Flooring
LVP is the gold standard for rental flooring. It looks like hardwood, is 100% waterproof, scratch-resistant, and costs a fraction of real wood. It holds up to pets, kids, and heavy foot traffic without showing wear.
- Cost: $4-$8 per sq ft installed
- Durability: 15-25 year lifespan with proper care
- Maintenance: Sweep and mop — that is it
- Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, hallways
We recommend a medium-tone wood look (gray-brown or warm oak) that hides dirt and matches any decor style.
2. White Shaker Cabinets
White shaker cabinets are the most versatile and popular cabinet style for rentals. They look clean, modern, and timeless. Soft-close hinges and drawers are worth the small upgrade — tenants notice and appreciate the quality.
- Cost: $150-$350 per linear foot (semi-custom)
- Why they work: Bright, clean look that photographs well for listings
- Hardware: Matte black pulls and knobs for a modern contrast
- Alternative: Gray or two-toned cabinets for a slightly different look
3. Quartz Countertops
Quartz offers the look of natural stone without the maintenance. It does not need sealing, resists stains, and handles daily kitchen abuse. For rentals, white or light gray quartz with subtle veining is the sweet spot — looks premium without the premium price.
- Cost: $50-$100 per sq ft installed
- Durability: Virtually indestructible in normal use
- Maintenance: Wipe with soap and water
- ROI: Quartz countertops consistently increase perceived value and rental rates
4. Subway Tile (Bathrooms & Backsplashes)
White subway tile is the go-to for rental bathrooms and kitchen backsplashes. It is affordable, easy to clean, and never goes out of style. The classic 3x6 brick pattern works everywhere.
- Cost: $8-$15 per sq ft installed
- Where to use: Shower walls, tub surrounds, kitchen backsplashes
- Grout tip: Use gray grout instead of white — it hides dirt and looks cleaner longer
- Upgrade option: Large-format porcelain tile for a more modern look
5. Matte Black Fixtures & Hardware
Matte black faucets, showerheads, towel bars, cabinet pulls, and light fixtures give any space an instant modern upgrade. They are affordable, widely available, and create a cohesive look throughout the unit.
- Cost: $20-$80 per fixture (faucets, handles, towel bars)
- Impact: High visual impact for low cost — one of the best ROI upgrades
- Consistency: Use the same finish throughout the unit for a polished, intentional look
- Alternative: Brushed nickel for a softer, more traditional feel
The Complete Rental Package
When you combine all five — LVP flooring, white shaker cabinets, quartz countertops, subway tile, and matte black fixtures — you get a rental unit that looks modern, photographs well, and holds up to years of tenant use. This is our standard rental renovation package and it consistently delivers the best ROI for our investor clients.
Ready to Renovate Your Rental?
We specialize in fast, value-driven rental renovations across Los Angeles. Learn more about our rental renovation services or request a free estimate.