There’s lots of movement in the rental market each New Year, so it’s a great time to look for a new tenant. While advertising your property when people are typically looking to move can secure you a tenant faster, you also need to make sure your listing stands out. Keep reading to learn how to get your property “tenant-ready”.
Work with an expert property manager
As a professional who works with landlords and tenants every day, a good property manager should have in-depth knowledge of the local property market and know how to help you get the best return possible from your property. Further, your property manager knows the features that good tenants are looking for and can recommend small improvements that will pay for themselves soon after they are done. Think fresh paint and carpet or installing an air conditioner in the living room.
Make sure your place is clean and tidy
Whether your property is vacant or still tenanted, the property should be clean and tidy when open homes occur. If your property is vacant, it should be spotless. This includes ensuring the oven is clean, the garage or shed is empty and ready for use, the blinds and curtains are clean, and the carpets are steam cleaned. And if your property has a garden, make sure it’s tidy or hire a gardener to attend your property regularly.
If your property is tenanted and you will have open homes, consider having a cleaner attend to ensure the place is well presented. You’ll just need to make sure you give the current tenants enough notice that you are having a cleaner attend the property.
Make repairs now
If anything in your property needs to be repaired, make sure this is done before a new tenancy starts. This may include repairing or replacing cupboard handles, fixing a broken letterbox, or removing or touching up marks on your walls. If you can’t attend the property yourself and do a walkthrough, get your property manager to inspect the property and make a list of repairs to complete, ideally before the property is advertised.
Check your appliances
When you or your property manager completes a walkthrough of your property, check that all of your appliances are clean and in working order. Check items such as the oven, stovetop, dishwasher, washing machine, dryer, and air conditioner. And if any of your appliances need repairs or a service, get an electrician to do this before a new tenancy starts.
Taking the steps now to ensure your property is clean and everything is in working order will not only help you attract a great tenant, but it can also increase your rental yield. If you’re considering advertising your property for rent in the New Year, speak with your property manager now to make a list of everything that should be done to give you the best chance of success.
Remember, this article is general in nature and is not financial or legal advice. Please consult your professional financial and legal advisors before making any decisions for yourself.