Preparing your California City rental property for the market is an important first step to finding a tenant and earning some rental income. Many landlords make the mistake of listing and showing the home
as-is. It pays to make an effort and allow the property to really stand apart from the competition. If you take the time to get your property ready for the rental market, you’ll be able to earn more rent, reduce your vacancy time, and
attract better tenants.
First Impressions Matter: Curb Appeal
When prospective tenants drive up or walk up to your property, they need to see a home that’s well-maintained, attractive, and inviting. If you’re renting out a single-family home, make sure the lawn has been cut, the bushes are trimmed, and yard has been cleaned up. There shouldn’t be any broken window blinds or cobwebs on the front door. A pot of fresh flowers will look nice in front of the property. Make sure the trash bins are pulled inside and sweep the front walkway. If you’re renting out a unit in a building, you want to be sure that the exterior is bright, clean, and easily identifiable.
Clean the Interior Thoroughly
A clean rental property is critical. Hire professional cleaners to come in and thoroughly clean the property from top to bottom. You want to have the floors done, which means steam-cleaning the carpets if necessary. Make sure the kitchens and bathrooms shine, and have your cleaners pay attention to every minor detail. Dust the ceiling fans, wipe down the baseboards, and pull the appliances away from walls to sweep and dust behind them. When you provide a perfectly clean home, tenants will be eager to move in, and they’ll also know you have high standards of cleanliness when it’s time to return the property at the end of the lease term.
Check Systems and Functions
Everything in your property needs to work. Check every outlet, turn on every faucet and sink, and flush each toilet. Run the heat and the air conditioning, and turn on the appliances. Check every window and door to ensure the locks work. Change the air filter and any light bulbs that are burnt out. You don’t want to promise prospective tenants that something will be fixed before they move in. Everything needs to be functional and safe before you put the property on the market.
Consider Minor Upgrades
When you have a well-maintained home in a good neighborhood, you rarely have to renovate it. However, when you’re preparing to put it on the rental market, it doesn’t hurt to make a few minor upgrades. Simple things like a fresh coat of paint or updated lighting can make a big difference. Even new hardware on the kitchen cabinets and drawers can make your property look modern and pretty. Consider making these small changes to attract tenants.
When you’re preparing your property for the rental market, feel free to
contact us
at JBL & Associates. We’d be happy to give you additional tips.
