Instant turn-offs for tenants when searching for a new rental property
When looking for a new property to rent, a tenant is not expecting to make much more than a 1 or 2 year commitment. The decision will likely be based on convenience for their work or lifestyle and affordability.
When looking for a new property to rent, a tenant is not expecting to make much more than a 1 or 2 year commitment. The decision will likely be based on convenience for their work or lifestyle and affordability.
There is no major decision to be made like when you buy a property. It is simple - Is the location convenient? Do I want to live here, and can I afford it?
There is no consideration given to changing the kitchen or upgrading the bathroom. A tenant will not expect to redecorate or landscape the garden. As they are renting someone else's property, they will not be looking through the same lens as a buyer would be. There will be no thoughts of "I can change this" or "we could paint that".
So, when a tenant looks at a property to rent, they're considering it in its current state, as it is right now, not the potential that it could have in the future.
If it isn't the right style or interior design, they will simply rent somewhere else that fits their needs. Either that or, if there are no other options, they will choose a property that doesn't quite fit what they are looking for, intending to move again as soon as something else comes up.
You, as the landlord, will need to present the property in the way that most appeals to your target tenants. Otherwise, they might just choose a different property altogether.
So, how can you ensure that a tenant will want to rent your property?
What are the biggest turn-offs for a tenant that you need to avoid?
Dirty: Number one would definitely be cleanliness. The property should be cleaned thoroughly between tenants so that a new, incoming tenant knows they will not be moving into a dirty home. It is the same concept as a hotel room - you wouldn't want to stay in a hotel room that has not been cleaned since the last guest. A deep clean between tenancies will ensure that the property is spick and span, and any potential tenant that views would be happy to move in.
Damaged: If areas of the property are obviously broken or damaged, a prospective tenant may be concerned that the landlord doesn't make repairs when needed. In the first instance, it could be as simple as the front gate or a kitchen cupboard that needs to be repaired. But leaving simple repairs creates an impression. What if you also don't fix more significant issues like central heating?
Dated: A tenant will not usually redecorate a property. So if the decor is not to their taste, they will likely move into a different property. Of course, this may be overlooked in a buoyant rental market with a property shortage. But, the tenant will probably move out again as soon as a different property takes their fancy.
So, keep your properties in tip-top condition, especially if they are vacant and you are trying to find a new tenant. Decorate in a style that suits the most likely target tenant. Ensure all is clean and tidy and deal with minor repairs so that the tenant can be confident that you will look after the property whilst they are living there.
Happy tenants will stay at a property for much longer than unhappy ones, and your time as the landlord will be smoother if they are comfortable in your property.
If you have a rental property and are looking for help finding a great tenant, contact our team of property rental experts today. They will be happy to help you find a tenant and will even give you tips and advice on what can be done to the property to attract tenants.