How to Prepare Your Property

The general rule of thumb here is to think neutral!

The chosen colour may not necessarily be to your own personal taste, but will appeal to the broadest range of tenants. A quick lick of paint in between tenancies will not only protect your investment, but also help attract the highest calibre of tenant.

All fixtures and fittings should all be in good repair with no damage; and should complement the style and standard of your property. Tired and dated properties will always command a lower rent.

If you require assistance with any DIY or home improvements, contact us, as we can offer a range of professional services at very competitive rates.

The furniture you provide must complement the decor and style of the property.

Furnishings must appeal to the type of tenant you wish to attract. Don’t take shortcuts!! The rule here is that cheapest isn’t always the best! Furniture that is of inferior quality, or falling apart is not acceptable, given the quality of property available in the current market.

Think about it… would you be happy sleeping on a sunken mattress, or sitting at a wobbly dining table? The lifespan of furnishings and décor in a rental property should be about half of that in your own home, so be prepared to invest in this on an ongoing basis. Furnish well, and a tenant is likely to stay longer!

The cleanliness of your property is probably the most fundamental factor in you securing a successful letting… Yet it is often the most overlooked!!

First impressions are crucial, so again think about it from a tenants’ perspective…what should they see and smell, as they walk through the front door?

The property should be cleaned to a professional standard in advance of a tenancy, including carpets, curtains and soft furnishings where necessary. In our experience, tenants that walk into an immaculately clean property on the first day of a tenancy, are more likely to maintain it to this standard.

Cleanliness is one of the main areas of contention at the termination of a tenancy, and this can be avoided if the property is properly cleaned to start with. If you are in any doubt of the requirements we can provide you with guidance on this, or we can recommend a cleaning firm to undertake this on your behalf.

Make sure everything works…

To reduce the chance of any unnecessary headaches during the tenancy, a quick but thorough check of the heating system and all appliances is essential. When was the last time you had the boiler serviced? Are the timer controls working correctly?

Go through all the appliances in the kitchen one by one, and check they are operating correctly. Make sure the freezer is defrosted, and the washing machine & dish washer run through a full cycle.

If you have any manuals or warranties, leave them in a kitchen drawer / folder for the tenants’ reference.

First impressions are vital and therefore a property with ‘Kerb-appeal’ will always attract more interest from tenants.

Take a look at your property from across the street. Is the garden neat & tidy? Is there any paint flaking from the walls or front door? You’ll be amazed how these little things can put people off before they even enter the property! And don’t forget the back garden or yard. Set the standard for how you want the tenant to maintain it.

In an apartment complex, take a look at your communal hallway, is it tidy? A doormat to welcome visitors can be a nice touch! Make sure your balcony is clear of any clutter, and a few pot plants can add colour.

We are happy to discuss all of the above with you when we meet at your property; & if needed can provide advice on preparation before walking the first tenant through!