First impressions are very important when a prospective tenant views your property.
Decide what type of tenant you are targeting. There are tenants who want to save money and don’t mind living in a property that is not in first class condition. But if you expect to collect top rent, make sure your property is presented at its best.
A well presented property usually attracts the best quality tenants and higher rent. It also results in shorter and less vacancy periods, which means a greater return on your investment.
Quick Tips
- For the best curb appeal have the lawns mowed, weeds sprayed and shrubs and trees trimmed on a regular basis. Be sure to clean the windows, walkways, gutters and exterior of the home. When the outside looks great, the prospective tenant will much more likely walk through the front door to inspect the inside.
- Make sure the home smells good. Get rid of ODORS, especially cigarette or pet smells. Musty smells aren’t inviting either.
- Repair or replace leaky faucets, sticking doors, loose door handles, broken light fixtures, rotten base boards, leaky gutters, and torn window screens.
- The property and carpets should be professionally cleaned prior to showing, neither of which is very expensive compared to rents lost.
- New paint in neutral colors will make the property look fresh and clean. Make certain that all electrical wiring and outlets are safe and secure. This includes any electric appliances that will be included in the rental.
- Open the curtains and blinds to let the sun and the view inside. No one likes a dark house, and the view will make the rooms feel bigger.
- If your investment property has a pool, make sure the pool and surrounding areas are sparkling. You want the prospective tenants to think the pool is a bonus, not a hassle. If the pool system needs professional repairs, get it taken care of quickly.
