Invest in Maintenance, Reap the Rewards: How Upkeep Increases Property Value

Sean Siemens- President and Managing Broker

At Drummer Realty and Property Management, we’ve been managing Calgary properties for

over 40 years and if there’s one thing we know for sure, it’s this:

👉 Owners who consistently maintain their properties keep them rented.

It really is that simple. Well-maintained properties attract better tenants, rent faster, and increase in value over time. But we also know from personal experience, because we’re property owners too, that keeping up with maintenance can feel like a stretch. It's not always fun, and it doesn't always feel urgent at the moment.

But here’s what we’ve seen, time and again: investing in small upkeep decisions today leads to bigger rewards tomorrow. You’ll get higher rent, fewer headaches, and a property that holds its value year after year.

What Is Preventative Maintenance?

Preventative maintenance is about catching issues early, before they turn into expensive surprises. It's the ongoing effort to keep your property running smoothly, looking good, and appealing to tenants who want a home they can take pride in.

We get that it can be hard to decide what’s worth spending on. That’s why we want you to know:

you can trust us to be honest and practical.

We’re not here to suggest unnecessary upgrades or push cosmetic changes that don’t make sense. We only recommend maintenance or improvements when we truly believe it will help protect your investment or improve your rental return. Period.

Maintenance That Makes a Real Difference

1. Duct Cleaning

Especially in Calgary’s dry, dusty climate, duct cleaning:

• Improves air quality
• Helps HVAC systems run efficiently
• Prevents long-term wear on heating systems
• A clean air system makes your unit healthier and more comfortable for tenants.

2.  Gutter Cleaning

Blocked gutters may not seem like a big deal—until they lead to:

• Water damage
• Roof leaks
• Foundation issues
• A seasonal clean-out can save you thousands in repairs and preserve your property’s structure for the long term.

3. Fence Repair or Replacement

A well-kept fence does more than improve looks. It adds:

• Privacy
• Security
• A strong first impression
• Tenants often decide how they feel about a property before they even walk in the door. A clean, sturdy fence can make all the difference.

4. Fresh Paint

Paint is one of the easiest and most cost-effective upgrades, delivering:

• A clean, updated feel
• Increased appeal in online listings
• Justification for higher rent
• A fresh coat tells tenants: “This property is cared for” and they respond in kind.

5. New Flooring

Tired carpet and worn-out linoleum make even the best units feel dated. Modern, durable flooring:

• Stands up to wear
• Is easier to clean between tenants
• Adds a modern, polished look
• Flooring upgrades help you rent faster and can retain tenants longer.

Why It’s Worth It: More Rent, Less Vacancy, Stronger Resale Value

We’ve managed thousands of homes across Calgary over four decades. The results are consistent:

• Well-maintained units rent faster
• Tenants stay longer
• Emergency repair costs go way down
• Property values go up

We’ve also seen that skipping maintenance to save a few dollars today often leads to much more costly issues down the road. We’re here to help you avoid that.

And again, we won’t suggest anything you don’t need. Our goal is the same as yours: protect your investment and maximize your return, without unnecessary spending.

We’re Owners Too: We Get It

At Drummer, we don’t just manage properties, we own them, too. We know what it’s like to wonder if a repair or upgrade is really worth it. We’ve felt the pressure of managing budgets and timelines. That’s exactly why we’re careful, honest, and selective in the advice we give to our owners.

When we recommend a maintenance item or improvement, it’s because we genuinely believe it will benefit you in the long run.

Let’s Protect (and Grow) Your Property’s Potential

With over 40 years of experience in Calgary’s rental market, Drummer Realty and Property Management is the team you can trust to keep your property performing and your investment secure.

Let us help you build a smart, manageable maintenance plan that keeps your rental occupied, profitable, and increasing in value year after year.