Small details can make or break a tenant's decision, but if you've ever tried to rent out a property, you already know this all too well. 

A good kitchen with a big island or a nice bathroom will get attention, sure. But what seals the deal are the little things, like an inviting deck. 

People don't want four walls and a roof. They want somewhere they'll have coffee in the morning and host a dinner party for their friends. You know, the stuff that makes you feel like you're not just at home. You're at a home you're crazy about. 

And, yes, many homes have decks. 

But how good are they? Can they handle the foot traffic, the weather, weekend barbecues, furniture, and everything else without becoming a maintenance nightmare? 

If the answer's "No", then that's not a deck that'll attract tenants.

Lucky for you, you've stumbled upon an article that will show you exactly what features you want.

Key Features Every Good Deck Has

A deck that looks nice is…. Nice. That's it. 

It's nice to look at. But it needs more than looks. A deck needs to be able to survive years of weather and use without falling apart or needing constant maintenance. 

If you don't have a deck already but you're thinking of putting one in, a reputable deck-building company like Keystone Custom Decks will know exactly what to do, so it's best to contact a local business like that to get all your questions answered and to see how you can work your idea into existence.

Here are some features you'll want to have. 

Use Materials That Will Last

Wood is beautiful. You know, at first. 

But it needs sealing, sanding, and pampering all the time, which is not ideal in general, but especially for rentals. Composite and PVC decking are much better choices because they stay solid for years with very little work. They can also handle heavy use and bad weather much better than wood. 

No fading, no cracking, no mold, no unhappy tenants. 

They cost more upfront, so that's a downside, but it's worth it in the long run. 

Keep the Surface Safe

Nobody wants a slippery deck, and when rain and frost hit, smooth boards will turn to hazards overnight. Your deck should have slip-resistant coatings or the deck boards should be textured instead of smooth, so that your tenants don't go flying around the backyard. That's funny only in cartoons. 

This way, your deck is safe for everyone, even for older renters and kids. 

It's also safer for you because you won't have to deal with accidents and insurance. 

Go for Easy-Care Railings

Railings make a deck look finished, but they also take a beating from the weather. 

When you're picking the railing, go for vinyl or powder-coated aluminum so you don't deal with rust and splinters. They stay clean and sturdy no matter the season, which is exactly what you want. 

Tenants will get to live in a space that's well-kept, and you'll avoid yet another thing that needs constant attention. 

Add Lighting That Works Day and Night

You can't not have lighting on your deck because it won't be usable at night.

Plus, lighting has a huge impact on mood. Solar or LED panels are your best bet because they're cheap and don't need a lot of upkeep. They make the space feel warm and inviting, and they make your whole property look better. 

A deck that's well-lit feels like a part of your home, not an awkward add-on. 

Built-in Smart Features

Don't have a big deck? That's okay, it doesn't have to be huge in order to be useful. 

But it does need some features, like built-in benches and small storage spots that make the space more practical. 

For tenants, this means they have storage and a place to sit without spending money on furniture. For landlords, built-in features mean fewer things to replace and less clutter after the tenants leave. 

Protection from the Weather

Rain, heat, and sunlight aren't your deck's friends, which is why you need weatherproof coatings and UV-resistant finishes. This is how it will stay in good shape longer. The protection will also keep the color and surface looking new between tenants. 

Once a year, you'll need to do a quick check-up to make sure it's all still in order. You also need to do smaller touch-ups. 

Give Tenants Some Privacy

How can you relax on a deck if you feel like you're on display? 

You can't, which is why you need a simple screen, perhaps tall planters, frosted panels, a fence, etc. The idea is to give a sense of privacy but not block the view completely. 

Conclusion

Installing a deck on a property isn't only for permanent family homes. 

If you're a landlord, getting a deck can be an amazing investment. And not only because it drives up the value of the property. But also because it'll help you attract tenants that you'd want as a landlord – long-term and responsible people who prioritize comfort and are willing to pay more for a functional outdoor property feature.

And there's no need to go all-in on deck quality. A sturdy and simple deck will do the trick, which means you won't have to spend THAT much.

If you think about the benefits you're getting, it's almost a must-have.