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Preparing a property for renting involves several important steps to ensure that it is attractive to potential tenants and in good condition. Here's a general guide to help you with the process:
Clean and declutter: Start by thoroughly cleaning the property, including all rooms, bathrooms, and the kitchen. Remove any personal belongings or clutter that might make the space appear smaller or uninviting. Consider hiring professional cleaners for a deep clean.
Repairs and maintenance: Inspect the property for any necessary repairs. Fix leaky faucets, replace broken light fixtures, repair damaged walls or flooring, and ensure that all appliances are in good working condition. Attend to any major issues that could affect the safety or comfort of tenants.
Fresh paint and flooring: Consider applying a fresh coat of paint to the walls in neutral colours to create a clean and inviting atmosphere. Replace worn-out or stained carpets and consider installing low-maintenance flooring like laminate or hardwood, which can be more appealing to renters.
Upgrade or replace fixtures: Consider upgrading outdated fixtures such as faucets, doorknobs, cabinet handles, and light switches. These small details can make a big difference in the overall appeal of the property.
Ensure safety measures: Install or check smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers to comply with safety regulations. Make sure all windows and doors are secure and functioning properly.
Landscaping and curb appeal: Enhance the property's curb appeal by maintaining the landscaping. Trim bushes, mow the lawn, and plant flowers or shrubs to create an inviting outdoor space.
Furnishing (optional): Depending on your target market, you may consider furnishing the property. This can attract tenants who are looking for a turnkey solution. Choose durable and functional furniture pieces that complement the overall style and design of the property.
Professional photographs: Once the property is ready, hire a professional photographer to capture high-quality images. Good photographs can significantly enhance your rental listing and attract more potential tenants.
Complete a gas safety check: As a landlord you need to complete a yearly gas safety check, this inspects any gas appliance in the property, including boilers, cookers and fires, ensuring they are working properly and safely.
Get an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): It is compulsory to have one of these, as you will need to provide the tenant with a copy. You should contact an accredited Domestic Energy Assessor to arrange for one of these to be completed for your property. This certificate gives your home an energy rating from A to G.
Set appropriate rental price: Research the rental market in your area to determine a competitive and reasonable rental price for your property. Consider factors such as location, size, amenities, and market demand.
Create a rental agreement: Draft a comprehensive rental agreement or lease that outlines the terms and conditions of the rental, including rent amount, lease duration, security deposit, maintenance responsibilities, and any other relevant details. Consider consulting with a legal professional to ensure compliance with local laws.
Advertise the property: Use various channels to advertise your property, such as online rental platforms, social media, local classifieds, and real estate websites. Include detailed descriptions, attractive photos, and contact information for potential tenants to reach you.
Conduct tenant screenings: Once you receive inquiries from potential tenants, conduct thorough screenings to ensure they meet your rental criteria. This may involve reviewing their rental application, checking references, verifying employment and income, and running a background and credit check.
Finalise the lease: Once you have selected a suitable tenant, review the lease agreement with them, clarify any questions or concerns, and have both parties sign the lease.
Did you know that if you lease your property through our Guaranteed Rent scheme, majority of the above will be taken care for you? And if it's something beyond our responsibility i.e. an EPC certificate, we have 20 years expertise to provide you with all of the advice you need.
All we ask is that your property is handed over in a suitable condition (which will be communicated to you) and we take care of the rest throughout the duration of our agreement. Even between tenancies, if a tenant moves out, we'll prepare your property so it's ready for the next tenant.
If you'd like to know more about Elliot Leigh property management services including Guaranteed Rent, get in touch today.