It’s a renter’s market

As a result, competition is increasing among landlords to secure good tenants – and many will be looking to their PM to help them out.

Top tips

Here are 10 suggestions for any landlord to help make their property a tenant’s first choice:

1. Maintain the property well. Insist on a professional clean for interiors and attend to repairs and maintenance as quickly as possible.
2. Carry out repairs/renovations that will improve the tenant’s lifestyle – think air-conditioners (often top of the renter’s wish list), heating, dishwasher, washer/dryer, security (locks, gates, screens, intercoms, alarms), high-speed internet connection/wiring for cable TV, flyscreens, clothesline, and even solar panels.
3. Give the home a mini makeover – paint, replace floorings if necessary and add storage or even appliances.
4. Consider more major renovations – bright new kitchens and bathrooms might secure a tenant and a premium rent!
5. Allow the tenants more freedom, like painting a feature wall or putting up pictures.
6. Don’t forget to spruce up outdoor areas and green it up with some new plants.
7. Keep your heart and mind open to all prospective tenants – pensioners and single parents often feel landlords find them an unattractive proposition, even if they’d be a great householder.
8. Consider flexible lease times – a short-term lease might be better than nothing!
9. Allow pets and make sure the property is pet-friendly.
10. Be flexible if tenants are experiencing financial problems – and build yourself a protective buffer with good landlord insurance.

With these and other bright ideas, we wish you and your client’s property a lifetime of wonderful tenants!