
Boosting Property Value: How a Fresh Coat of Paint Can Help Milwaukee Landlords Attract Tenants
Posted on January 20, 2025
For landlords in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, looking to attract tenants and boost property value, a fresh coat of paint is one of the most effective and budget-friendly strategies. Not only does it improve the visual appeal of a property, but it also conveys care and attention to detail—qualities tenants seek in a rental home. Let’s explore how strategic painting choices can enhance your property’s desirability while embracing Milwaukee’s unique character.

Why Painting Matters for Rentals in Milwaukee
Milwaukee’s rental market reflects the city’s dynamic blend of historic charm and modern living. From the vintage appeal of neighborhoods like Bay View and the East Side to the newer developments in the Third Ward, tenants in Milwaukee appreciate properties that align with the area’s urban yet approachable vibe. A fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into your rental property, helping it stand out in this competitive market while complementing the local aesthetic.
Best Paint Colors to Attract Tenants
When selecting paint colors for your rental property, neutrals and soft tones are key to appealing to a broad audience. These shades allow tenants to envision the space as their own while maintaining a polished and modern look. Here are some tailored suggestions for Milwaukee rentals:
Living Rooms and Common Areas
Neutral tones like greige (a mix of gray and beige) or light taupe work exceptionally well for Milwaukee’s older homes with rich architectural details. These colors create a cozy yet versatile atmosphere that highlights features like crown molding or hardwood floors. Pairing these tones with crisp white trim enhances the overall effect, creating a clean and modern look that renters will appreciate.
Bedrooms
Soft blues, such as cerulean or gray-blue, are ideal for bedrooms. These hues offer a calming effect, perfect for tenants seeking a relaxing retreat. In Milwaukee’s colder months, these shades can also evoke a sense of warmth and comfort when paired with white or natural wood accents.
Kitchens
Kitchens in Milwaukee rentals can benefit from clean, fresh tones like soft gray or muted gray-blue. These colors complement stainless steel appliances and light cabinetry, creating a modern yet approachable look. For an extra touch of style, consider painting cabinets navy or deep green to reflect contemporary design trends popular in urban settings like Milwaukee.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms are a great opportunity to make a strong impression. Light, airy blues or soft grays can create a spa-like feel that tenants love. Pairing these tones with white or chrome fixtures enhances the room’s brightness and freshness, especially important in smaller Milwaukee bathrooms typical of older buildings.
Dining Rooms
Slate blue or blue-gray tones bring a sense of understated elegance to dining spaces. These colors work particularly well in Milwaukee’s historic homes, complementing traditional layouts while adding a modern touch. Off-white trim can complete the sophisticated look tenants desire.
Exterior Paint Colors for Curb Appeal
In Milwaukee, curb appeal is vital, especially in neighborhoods like Riverwest or Washington Heights, where character and charm are key selling points. Neutral tones like greige, soft beige, or warm gray are excellent choices to highlight your property’s exterior. A freshly painted facade not only enhances visual appeal but also signals to prospective tenants that the property is well-maintained.
Milwaukee’s Unique Rental Market
Milwaukee offers a diverse rental market, with tenants ranging from young professionals working in the downtown area to families drawn to the city’s parks, breweries, and cultural attractions. Rental properties with modern updates, including fresh paint, are particularly attractive in this market. Whether your property is near the lakefront, within the vibrant Third Ward, or in a quieter suburban neighborhood, investing in thoughtful design updates can make a significant difference in attracting quality tenants.
Painting Tips for Landlords
- Opt for Durable Finishes: Choose finishes like eggshell or satin for walls and semi-gloss for trim and doors to ensure durability and easy maintenance.
- Stick to Timeless Colors: Neutral tones provide flexibility for tenants to personalize their living spaces.
- Focus on High-Traffic Areas: Prioritize painting areas like kitchens, hallways, and entryways that tend to show the most wear and tear.
- Hire Professionals: A professional paint job ensures a polished finish, which is especially valuable in Milwaukee’s competitive rental market.
Transform Your Milwaukee Rental with CertaPro Painters® of Milwaukee
A fresh coat of paint is a simple and cost-effective way to boost your property’s value and attract quality tenants. By selecting tenant-friendly colors and aligning with Milwaukee’s unique charm, landlords can create inviting spaces that stand out.