First impressions are critical when a prospective tenant inspects your property.
Different tenants desire different things in their place of business but overall there is no doubt that well presented properties achieve top rents and usually attract the best tenants. That adds up to a higher investment return, together with fewer shorter vacancy periods.
Here are some valuable property presentation tips
- Tend the gardens, mow the lawns and clean the windows, paths, gutters and outside paintwork. These are all things seen from the street, and you don’t want prospective tenants to dismiss the property before getting to the front door.
- Repair or replace leaking taps, broken light fittings, loose door handles, leaky gutters.
- If you are thinking about painting, only paint those areas that really need it unless you plan on doing the lot. New paint may only make those areas left unpainted look even shabbier. Use light, neutral colours as strong colours may not be to the tenant’s taste. If paint is generally in good condition, touch up the scruffy bits.
- Have the property clean, tidy and uncluttered at inspection times.
- Ensure that all electrical wiring and power points are safe. This includes any electrical appliances to be included with the property.
- Take out comprehensive insurance cover on the property (including public liability). You don’t want to be sued by a prospective tenant who accidentally injures themselves while inspecting the property.