5 ways to make sure YOUR property stands out from the crowd.

Posted by: Neil Robinson

Houses aren’t selling as fast as they were a few years ago, and as a result, there are more rental properties on the market than ever. Because of this, tenants are able to be a bit more choosy, meaning that only the best presented properties are getting a look-in.

Our experience shows that properties that have been well looked after by their landlords receive similar respect from tenants, so putting the initial effort in is well worth it in the long run and assists landlords in achieving a sound return on their investment.

Here are a few non-rocket science style tips to ensure that your properties get all the admiring glances…
 

1. Start with the outside. If the property looks like it’s falling down, then tenants will simply look for one that looks like it isn’t falling down. Start by wiping the window frames and front door down, and giving them a lick of paint if necessary. Cut back any overgrown plants or shrubbery, take up any weeds and keep the lawn short. Not only will this make the house look presentable, but it will also give your potential tenant an example of how you expect the property to be returned to you at the end of the tenancy
    
2. Smarten up the interior. We’re not suggesting that you make the property look like Buckingham Palace, but old carpets and old fashioned wallpaper are a definite turn off for tenants. Simply, plain white or cream walls with a plain neutral carpet (or even better, a laminate floor) is THE best way to present a rental property; firstly, any wear, tear or damage is easily and cheaply fixed, plus it will match pretty much whatever furniture your tenant has.
    
3. If it’s broken, fix it, or remove it. If, as a landlord you place an item in your property to let,  then tenants expect it to be in working order, and in some cases you will be legally obliged to ensure that this is the case. For instance, if you have an alarm system that is broken, either make sure it is fixed, or remove the panel and PIRs
    
4. Ask yourself if you would live in it? It might not be your exact choice of property that you as the landlord would live in but in terms of cleanliness and décor, would you carry the same standards to your own property? If you answer negatively to either of those, put it right, as the viewers of your property to let will think the same
    
5. Fit curtains or blinds. A property that looks ‘finished’ from the outside is always more appealing to potential tenants. Plus it can be a real hassle for the tenant to arrange curtains or blinds that fit your windows, and they may well resent having to pay for these items, only to have to leave them behind at the end of the tenancy.

REMEMBER

• If your property gives the impression you don’t care about it, the likelihood is that your tenant won’t care either.
• They’ll never stop making cream coloured paint, which means that any small scuffs, nicks or patches are easy to fix.
• Laminate or carpet? Carpets are cheaper, but laminate is tougher. You’ll probably end up changing the carpets every two years or so, whereas laminate is harder wearing, easier to keep clean and will last a lot longer.