Rental Renovation ROI Calculator

Model rent lift and payback before you spend.

Choose an upgrade, enter cost, and see the expected rent increase and payback for rentals—not flips.

Run the ROI calculator

Tips

  • Target payback under 24 months for rentals.
  • Match upgrades to neighborhood expectations.
  • Account for vacancy during the project.
Inputs

Upgrade details

Start with your current rent, select an upgrade, and adjust the cost and rent lift.

FAQ

What’s a good payback period for rental upgrades?

Under ~24 months is generally strong. 24–30 months can be okay if the upgrade reduces turnover risk. Longer than that is usually slow.

Should I include vacancy during the project?

Yes. If the work forces vacancy, factor those lost days into total cost. Faster execution or doing work between tenants improves ROI.

How accurate are the default rent lifts?

They’re ballpark estimates. Your market, property type, and finish level matter. Adjust the expected increase based on comps and renter expectations.

Is it better to do multiple small upgrades or one big one?

Start with fast-payback items (paint, fixtures, minor flooring) before big kitchen/bath projects unless comps clearly support a higher lift.

Results

ROI snapshot

New rent, annual lift, and payback period.

New estimated rent

Marginal payback

$2,270

+$170 per month ($2,040 per year).

Payback period

22.4 months

Annual rent lift

$2,040

Upgrade cost

$3,800

Current rent

$2,100

When it’s worth it

  • Payback under ~24 months is typically strong for rentals.
  • Pair upgrades with lease renewal to avoid extra vacancy.

If payback is slow

  • Downscope: focus on paint/fixtures before bigger projects.
  • Rebid labor or time the work between tenants to cut downtime.

Want pro-grade numbers?

We’ll price upgrades against comps and handle the project if you prefer.