Presenting your property – Improve chances of renting.

Preparation is important and presenting your property to a high standard will improve your chances of renting it quicker and obtaining the income that you require.

Also by taking time now to tend to any problems in the property, you should hopefully avoid any future ones.

Tenants often have many properties to choose from therefore it is imperative that your property stands out from the rest.

To help you we have compiled some recommendations.

Interior

Consider painting the property in light, neutral colours. This will immediately give a fresh look, make the property feel brighter and bigger, and will appeal to everyone.

De-clutter the property. If you are renting your property furnished leave only the minimum furnishings. Remove any personal items from the property or leave in a locked cupboard. Ensure any furnishings and/or linen are clean and ready to use and that they adhere to the necessary fire safety regulations.

All appliances must be safe and working correctly. If not, arrange for them to be fixed or replace them.

All utilities such as gas, water and electric must be safe and adhere to the necessary regulations. Ensure any inspections are up to date and the necessary certificates are available.

The property and its contents must be in a thoroughly clean condition. An unclean property will immediately put people off, even if you intend to clean it just before someone moves in. Clean it prior to any viewings.

Exterior

Gardens should be left neat and tidy. Cut the grass, tend to flower beds and remove any dangerous hazards. Leave tools for the tenant such as a lawnmower and hedge trimmer.

Patio / decking areas should be cleaned.

Tend to any obvious repairs such as broken paving slabs or steps.

If necessary re-paint the exterior.

Other

Make good use of the property’s main selling points. For example if you have a nice view ensure the windows are clean and free from clutter.

Ensure the property is secure and that you have keys for all doors and windows. Fit additional security locks if necessary.

If you are renting a flat or similar, leave a copy of any communal rules for the tenant with any contact numbers they may require.

Leave instructions on how to use the central heating and where the water shut off is.

For appliances it is recommended that you write instructions on how to use or leave the manuals.

Provide details of when refuse is collected and where bins should be left.

If the property has an alarm, leave instructions on how to operate. Also provide contact details for the alarm company.

Re-direct any mail you may receive at the property.

Obtain copies of all your recent utility bills so that when a tenant moves in the bills can be transferred into their name.

If you are intending to rent a property unfurnished it is recommended that you install curtain poles, light fittings, bathroom accessories, carpets and a cooker.

For further information please see

Renting your Property

Landlord Responsibilities

Tenancy Agreements

Tenancy Deposit Schemes