10 smart ways property managers can use their maintenance team to boost ROI

For property managers, the maintenance team is more than just a repair crew—it’s a strategic asset. When leveraged effectively, your maintenance team can enhance return on investment (ROI) for both property owners and your own management business significantly. From cost control to curb appeal, here are 10 powerful ways to turn maintenance into a profit-driving machine.

1. Control Costs Through In-House Efficiency

The more doors you manage, the more repairs you’ll have to handle. And there will come a time when outsourcing every repair will start to eat into profits. By building a skilled in-house maintenance team, property managers can reduce reliance on third-party vendors. An in-house team also allows for:

• Faster response times
• Lower labor costs
• Better quality control

Pro Tip:  Using a centralized maintenance request system helps prioritize tasks, reduce duplication, and streamline workflows.

2. Preventative Maintenance: The ROI Multiplier

Preventative maintenance is one of the most cost-effective strategies for long-term ROI. Regular inspections and scheduled servicing of HVAC systems, plumbing, electrical, and roofing can prevent small issues from becoming costly disasters.

Create a preventative maintenance calendar that includes:

• Regular walkthroughs of your properties to check for issues
• Quarterly HVAC filter changes
• Annual roof inspections
• Seasonal gutter cleaning
• Regular pest control

This proactive approach extends the life of major systems and reduces emergency repair costs.

3. Seasonal Maintenance to Protect Property Value

Each season brings unique challenges. A well-prepared maintenance team can mitigate weather-related damage and make sure properties remain in top condition year-round.

Here are just a few of the tasks you should perform each season.

Spring/Summer:

• Inspect irrigation systems
• Service air conditioning units
• Repaint exterior trim
• Remove dead or dying branches
• Repair cracks or other cold-weather damage

Fall/Winter:

• Clean gutters and downspouts
• Winterize pipes and outdoor faucets
• Check insulation and weather stripping
• Clear overhanging branches

For a full list of seasonal maintenance projects, check out our Essential Property Maintenance Checklists.

4. Smart Tech Upgrades for Modern Appeal

Smart home technology is no longer a luxury. It’s an expectation. Installing smart thermostats, keyless entry systems, leak detectors, and energy-efficient lighting can:

• Reduce utility costs
• Attract tech-savvy tenants
• Increase rental value

Upgrades like these are relatively low-cost and easily installed by a trained maintenance team, offering a high ROI for both owners and managers.

5. Modernize Kitchens, Bathrooms, and Flooring

Cosmetic upgrades are among the most visible ways to boost property value, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Replacing outdated fixtures
• Installing new countertops or backsplashes
• Upgrading flooring to vinyl plank or tile

Even small changes—like new cabinet hardware or a fresh coat of paint—can make a big impact on rental rates and tenant satisfaction.

6. Build Out Amenities to Increase Rent Potential

Amenities are a major draw for prospective tenants and can justify higher rents. With the help of your maintenance team, consider adding or enhancing:

• Fitness centers or yoga rooms
• Swimming pools or splash pads
• Dog parks or pet washing stations
• Secure bike storage or EV charging stations
• Covered parking or garages

Additions like these build property value and improve tenant retention.

7. Rapid Response to Maintenance Requests

Tenant satisfaction is directly tied to how quickly and effectively maintenance issues are resolved. A responsive maintenance team can:

• Prevent negative reviews
• Reduce turnover
• Catch small problems before they escalate

Pro Tip: Use a digital maintenance request system where tenants can submit issues anytime and track progress.

Having that and a Maintenance Contact Center that can answer calls 24/7/365 can boost ROI by building your reputation as a reliable property management company that handles fixes before they turn into costly disasters.

8. Boost Curb Appeal with Landscaping and Beautification

First impressions matter. A well-maintained exterior can attract quality tenants and reduce vacancy rates. Your maintenance team can enhance curb appeal through:

• Regular lawn care and seasonal planting
• Power washing sidewalks and siding
• Repainting doors, shutters, and trim
• Installing outdoor lighting

Upgrades like these are relatively inexpensive but can have a big impact on the value of your properties.

9. Use Data to Drive Maintenance Decisions

If you’re not already, you should be using property management software to track maintenance costs, identify recurring issues, and optimize resource allocation. 

• Forecast budget needs
• Justify capital improvements
• Identify underperforming assets

By analyzing trends, you can make smarter decisions that improve ROI over time.

10. Leverage Property Management Technology for Maintenance ROI

Technology is the backbone of modern property management—and it’s especially powerful when it comes to maintenance. Here’s how tech tools can supercharge your team’s efficiency and boost ROI:

• Tenant and Vendor Portals: Tenants can log maintenance requests directly into the system, while vendors can receive, accept, and complete work orders. This reduces delays and miscommunication.
• Project Management Features: Group related tasks under larger projects (e.g., unit turns or seasonal maintenance) to streamline planning and budgeting.
• Automated Accounting Integration: Convert invoices into bills, set up auto-payments, and sync everything with your accounting system. This reduces manual entry and ensures accurate financial tracking.
• Communication Tools: Keep tenants and owners informed with real-time updates on maintenance progress. Automated notifications and status updates improve transparency and trust.
• Mobile Access: Allow your maintenance team to receive, update, and close work orders from the field, reducing downtime and improving responsiveness.

Property managers who view their maintenance team as a strategic asset—not just a cost center—are better positioned to deliver strong ROI for owners and themselves. By focusing on preventative care, smart upgrades, tenant satisfaction, and technology-driven efficiency, you can turn maintenance into a powerful driver of profitability.

If you’d like to see how Buildium can help you boost your maintenance game, sign up for a free 14-day trial, no credit card required, or schedule a demo.