There are several steps that you will have to take and things you must consider when you’re getting your rental property ready for the market. The goal is to find that next great tenant. Typically, when we talk about getting a rental property ready for the market, it’s the same process we follow when we’re getting a home ready for the sales market. So, we’ll assume the house is vacant.
If you follow these steps to getting your property ready for the rental market, you should be able to limit your vacancy time and place a highly qualified renter quickly.
Pay Attention to Curb Appeal
Curb appeal is a term that’s applied to property sales, but it matters with rental homes, too. Think about what prospective tenants see when they drive up to the property. They’re going to notice whether the lawn is well-kept. They’ll be looking for grass that’s mowed, edged, and trimmed. They’ll want to see nice shrubs and fresh mulch around the flower beds. It’s important to make a good first impression, and to show them that the house is being cared for. If your home does not look inviting and welcoming, they won’t bother getting out of the car.
Provide a Clean and Functional Interior
As soon as a prospective tenant walks in the door, he or she will notice how it smells. Make sure there are no lingering pet odors from the last tenant. Everything should look and smell clean and fresh. Prospective tenants will be looking at the floors and the walls to see what kind of condition the carpet and the paint are in. They’ll take their time walking around, noting whether the ceiling fans work. Make sure the blinds open and close and aren’t covered in dust.
Have the property professionally cleaned, and maintain that level of cleanliness until your tenant moves in. When you show the property, your prospects will inspect the appliances to see if they are clean and functioning. They’ll notice any dust, any dirt in the corners, and anything that isn’t working.
Offer a Well-Maintained Home to Boost Tenant Retention
Don’t forget that the number one reason tenants leave rental properties is because they aren’t happy with the maintenance of the property. The condition of the home is very important when they’re looking for their next place to live. If they see obvious problems like ceiling fans that are wobbly or a stove with burners that don’t turn on, or light bulbs that are burnt out, they won’t want to rent from you.
Make sure you’re putting your best foot forward and giving them an attractive and functional home. Show potential tenants that you care about your rental property, and you expect them to care about it too.
When you do these things, you’ll be able to attract and retain high quality tenants. You’ll also be able to charge a higher rental amount, and you won’t have to worry about suffering through a long and expensive vacancy.
If you have any questions about getting your property ready for the Charleston rental market, please contact us at New Heights Property Management. We’d be happy to be your rental management resource.