As a landlord, preparing your property for rent is a crucial step to ensure a steady income and a positive experience for both you and your tenants. A well-prepared rental property attracts high-quality tenants, reduces vacancy periods, and minimizes maintenance issues down the line. Here are some comprehensive tips that our team at Mark Brower Properties has compiled to get your property ready for rent:
Perform a Thorough Cleaning
A clean property sets the tone for how tenants will treat it. Make sure to:
- Steam clean carpets
- Polish hard floors
- Clean windows inside and out
- Scrub all surfaces in the kitchen, including appliances, counters, and cupboards
- Ensure all bathroom fixtures are sparkling and mold-free
- Dust and wash walls and ceilings to remove cobwebs and stains
We strongly recommend hiring a professional cleaning service to ensure everything is spotless. This could also save you time, especially if you have multiple investment properties to attend to. What’s more, professionals will be better able to spot small issues that owners and residents may have become accustomed to, ultimately ensuring a more thorough cleaning.
Make Necessary Repairs
Before listing your property, walk through it as if you were a prospective tenant. Note any issues that need fixing, such as plumbing leaks, electrical problems, and HVAC systems. Check faucets, toilets, and pipes for leaks, test all outlets, switches, and light fixtures, and ensure heating and cooling systems are functioning efficiently.
Next repair any doors and windows that are sticking, squeaky, or have broken locks, and make sure all appliances are in working order and replace if necessary. Prompt repairs demonstrate your commitment to maintaining the property and preventing future disputes with tenants.
If you’d like help with this, Mark Brower Properties provides an onboarding checklist. Our process with produce a detailed report that emphasizes what still needs to be done to get the property ready, and our professional recommendations to achieve maximum rent and high-caliber tenants.
Enhance Curb Appeal
The exterior of your property is the first thing potential tenants see. Invest time and effort in mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, and planting flowers. Power wash siding, walkways, and driveways, and repaint if the exterior looks worn or outdated. Consider installing outdoor lighting for safety and aesthetics. A well-maintained exterior makes your property more attractive and can justify a higher rent.
Update Fixtures and Appliances
Modern fixtures and appliances can make your property more appealing. As such replace outdated or broken light fixtures with modern, energy-efficient options. Invest in stainless steel or other modern finishes for kitchen appliances if your budget allows. Consider upgrading bathroom faucets, showerheads, and toilets for a fresh look. These updates can significantly enhance the property’s appeal without a major renovation.
Paint and Decorate Neutrally
A fresh coat of paint in neutral colors can make a big difference. Neutral tones are universally appealing and allow tenants to visualize their belongings in the space. As such, stick to colors like beige, gray, or white, and avoid bold or unusual colors.
Ensure Safety and Compliance
Make sure your property complies with local regulations and safety standards. Install and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly and ensure that all doors and windows have secure locks. Then verify that handrails and stairs are sturdy and meet code requirements and ensure wiring and outlets are up to code. Compliance with safety regulations not only protects tenants but also reduces your liability as a landlord.
Set Competitive Rent
Research the local market to determine a competitive rent price. Look at similar properties in the area and consider factors such as location, size, and amenities. Setting the right rent attracts tenants quickly and reduces vacancy periods.
Prepare a Comprehensive Lease Agreement
A well-drafted lease agreement protects both you and your tenants. Ensure it includes rent details such as amount, due date, and payment methods, security deposit information including amount and conditions for return, maintenance responsibilities outlining who is responsible for what, and rules and policies such as pet policies and smoking rules.
Create a Detailed Listing
A well-crafted listing is essential for attracting potential tenants. Include high-quality photos showing each room, the exterior, and any unique features, and write a detailed description highlighting the property’s best attributes. Don’t forget to clearly state the rent price, lease duration, and any policies. A thorough and appealing listing helps you stand out in a competitive rental market.
Screen Tenants Carefully
Finding the right tenants is crucial for a positive rental experience. Implement a thorough screening process that includes background checks, verifying past evictions, conducting credit checks, and assessing financial responsibility. A careful screening process helps ensure you find reliable and responsible tenants.
Conduct a Move-In Inspection
Before tenants move in, record a detailed pre-move-in inspection of the property and shake it with the resident. This documentation is crucial for preventing and resolving any disputes over the security deposit at the end of the lease.
Establish Clear Communication Channels
Open and clear communication with your tenants fosters a positive relationship. Provide multiple ways for tenants to contact you and respond promptly to inquiries and maintenance requests. Regularly check in to address any concerns and ensure the property is being maintained.
Plan for Ongoing Maintenance
Regular maintenance keeps your property in good condition and prevents major issues. Develop a maintenance schedule for tasks such as HVAC servicing twice a year, pest control quarterly or as needed, regular lawn care with mowing and trimming, and annual or biannual gutter cleaning. Planning for ongoing maintenance helps you stay ahead of potential problems and keeps your tenants satisfied.
Bottom Line
Getting your property ready to rent involves a mix of preparation, maintenance, and strategic updates. By investing time and effort upfront, you can attract quality tenants, reduce vacancy periods, and ensure a smooth rental experience. Follow these tips to set your property apart and create a welcoming home for your future tenants.
That said, owning and managing a rental property isn’t for everyone. To make the process easier and maximize your return on investment, work with a trusted property management company. If you need help, contact Mark Brower Properties, and our expert property managers would be happy to assist you!
