Preparing your property to let
When people view your property, it will be compared to others available, so the condition and appearance will affect both the rental value and the speed at which it is let.
A few points I highly recommend you to consider, remember first impressions count:
- Decorations should be light, modern and neutral; be prepared to re-decorate as necessary.
- Carpets need to be clean and in neutral colours
- Kitchens and bathrooms should be modern and clean.
- The property should be thoroughly cleaned and uncluttered throughout.
- Gardens should be tidy and well maintained.
What certificates do I need to rent out my property?
- Energy Performance Certificate
- Electrical Safety Certificate
- Gas Safety Certificate
- Fire alarm Certificate or a test carried out by a competent person pre-tenancy
Choosing the right tenant
One could argue that this is the most important part of being a landlord. Choosing the right tenant is vital to ensuring a hassle-free, long term and importantly well-paying tenancy. The wrong tenant can end up proving to be a very costly mistake indeed.
Our tenants are thoroughly referenced using rigorous methods including credit check, affordability, previous landlord reference and right to rent checks.
In addition to this I always conduct viewings personally and with over 25 years of meeting so many prospective tenants, I like to think I have built up a good ‘spider sense’ for suitable tenants.
Deposits
Under government regulations, all deposits must be registered without exception. We currently use the DPS scheme so tenants and landlords can rest assured the deposit is safe. A deposit will not be released in most cases, until we have confirmed any deductions at the end of the tenancy. Full details will be given upon request.
During the tenancy
Regular inspections should be carried out during any tenancy to ensure the property is being well maintained and in a good condition with no maintenance issues. Our properties are checked on a regular basis and any issues found are dealt with very promptly.
Maintenance
From time-to-time maintenance issues will arise in any property and it is vital to deal with these issues quickly and efficiently. This will ensure a good relationship with your tenants and protect your property.
We have a list of approved and experienced tradesmen, most of whom we have personally worked with over many years, this ensures any issues are dealt with in a prompt and professional manner. If you so prefer you are also welcome to provide your own personal list of approved contractors who are known to you.
Ending the tenancy
We all as landlords would like our properties to be occupied by good tenants for as long as possible, for various reasons tenants do eventually move out. This is the time where you want to avoid a long void period and loss of rent.
As soon as a tenant gives their months notice I arrange to remarket your property immediately and find a suitable replacement therefore minimising any void period and loss of rent. On checkout day your property should be thoroughly inspected for condition and damages. I will once again arrange a full inventory with pictures at no cost to you. This will help to assess the condition of your property and will be compared to the original inventory report done when the tenant moved in. It is also a great form of proof in case any disputes over condition or damages do arise. If there are any issues I will arrange works to ensure your property is ready for occupation as quickly as possible and deal with the costs via the registered deposit scheme if required.
What is my investment worth?
Don't forget I can always advise you on the value of your property or portfolio, and when the time comes to sell, ask me about my preferential rates for landlords.
If you would like more information on how to successfully let your property – click here – to read my article ‘Questions every landlord should ask to help find the perfect tenant.