How to Design and Equip Houses for Rent with a Rec Room to Increase Rental Appeal and Value

As the demand for unique and functional rental properties increases, one of the best ways to make your property stand out is by adding a rec room. A rec room, short for recreation room, is a space designed for fun and leisure activities, and it can drastically increase the appeal and value of your rental property. In this post, we'll dive into how to design and equip a rec room that attracts potential tenants and boosts rental income.

1. Choose the Right Space

The first step in creating an appealing rec room is selecting the ideal location within the house. This space needs to be large enough to accommodate various activities but not so large that it takes away from the functionality of the rest of the house. Here's what to keep in mind:

• Basement : If your rental property has a basement, this is often the best place to design a rec room. Basements are typically separated from the main living areas, providing a great space for noisy activities without disturbing the rest of the house.
• Spare Rooms : If a basement is unavailable, consider using a spare bedroom, loft, or even a garage (if it's insulated and well-ventilated) for the rec room.
• Lighting and Ventilation : Ensure that the room has good lighting, whether natural or artificial, and proper ventilation, especially if it's an enclosed space like a basement or garage.

2. Plan the Layout

Once you have your space, the next step is planning the layout. A well-organized rec room will feel spacious and inviting. Consider the following when designing the layout:

• Flow : The room should be easy to navigate and allow for multiple activities. If possible, create distinct areas for different purposes, such as a lounging area, gaming space, or even a mini bar.
• Seating Arrangement : Provide ample seating that encourages socializing. Comfortable couches, bean bags, or recliners are great for a cozy setup, while modular seating can be rearranged for larger groups.
• Activity Zones : If space permits, divide the rec room into different zones. One area could have a pool table or ping pong table, while another could feature a TV for movie nights or video game consoles.

3. Equip the Rec Room with Popular Entertainment Options

The key to a successful rec room is offering a variety of entertainment options to keep tenants engaged. The types of equipment and furniture you include will depend on your target market, but here are some popular items that can increase the appeal of the space:

• Game Tables : Consider adding a pool table, ping pong table, foosball table, or air hockey table. These are great additions that cater to different tastes and offer endless hours of entertainment.
• TV and Media Equipment : Install a large TV or projector screen for movie nights and sports events. You could also add a sound system to enhance the experience. For tech-savvy tenants, consider offering a streaming setup with services like Netflix, Hulu, or a gaming console.
• Gaming Station : A dedicated gaming area with video game consoles, a gaming chair, and a collection of games can be a huge draw, especially for younger renters or families with children.
• Bar Area : If the space allows, a mini bar or snack corner with a refrigerator, sink, and storage for drinks and snacks can be a great feature, particularly for adults who entertain often.
• Fitness Equipment : If your target market is active tenants or families with kids, including some basic fitness equipment, such as a mini trampoline, yoga mats, or dumbbells, can make the room more versatile.

4. Focus on Comfort and Style

To make the rec room truly inviting, comfort and style are key. Create a space where tenants feel at home and enjoy spending time. Here are a few ways to improve the comfort and aesthetics of the room:

• Comfortable Furniture : In addition to entertainment options, make sure the room is equipped with cozy seating. Cushions, throw blankets, and lounge chairs can make the space more welcoming.
• Color Scheme : Choose a color palette that's both stylish and relaxed. Neutral colors with pops of bold tones can give the room a modern feel while maintaining a laid-back atmosphere.
• Wall Art and Décor : Decorate the room with fun and vibrant artwork, framed posters, or thematic décor related to sports, movies, or music to give the room character. A well-decorated rec room enhances the overall appeal.
• Storage Solutions : Provide ample storage for games, equipment, and other accessories to keep the room tidy. Shelves, cabinets, or storage ottomans can help manage the space while maintaining its functionality.

5. Create a Multi-Use Space

A rec room doesn't have to be limited to just entertainment. Consider making it a versatile space that tenants can use for multiple purposes:

• Home Office Area : Some tenants may want to combine work and play, especially if they're working from home. Consider adding a small desk or workspace with a comfortable chair for those who need a quiet area for work.
• Guest Area : If your rec room is large enough, you can include a pull-out sofa or futon to accommodate guests who need a place to stay. This adds an extra level of flexibility and convenience to the space.
• Kids' Play Area : For families, a rec room can also double as a playroom. Provide storage for toys and children's games and include a soft rug or mats for a safe, fun environment.

6. Promote the Rec Room in Your Rental Listings

Once you've designed and equipped your rec room, it's time to promote it to potential tenants. A rec room is an attractive feature, so be sure to showcase it in your rental listings:

• Highlight It in the Description : Mention the rec room in your listing title and description. Talk about its versatility and the entertainment options it provides, emphasizing how it adds value to the property.
• Use High-Quality Photos : Capture the room from multiple angles to showcase its size and the different features. Make sure to highlight the key entertainment areas, such as gaming stations or game tables.
• Target Families and Young Renters : The rec room is particularly appealing to families, young professionals, and tenants who enjoy hosting. Market it accordingly to attract these demographics.

7. Maintain the Rec Room Regularly

Once the rec room is ready and rented, ensure it stays in good condition. Regular maintenance is necessary to keep the equipment in working order and the space inviting. This includes cleaning, repairing any damaged items, and replacing worn-out furniture or equipment when necessary.

Conclusion

Adding a rec room to your rental property is an excellent way to increase both its appeal and value. By creating a versatile, well-equipped space where tenants can relax, entertain, and even work, you're providing a unique feature that can set your property apart from others on the market. With the right planning and promotion, a rec room can become a major selling point that attracts long-term, happy tenants.