Member Article

Top tips to let a property

KIS Lettings, a property management agency, supports landlords looking to let their property. The service includes advice to landlords on how to best market their residential property to secure tenants and achieve the best possible rental income.

Ajay Jagota, managing director at KIS, gives his top ten tips to successfully market a let and illustrates the small investments landlords can make to prevent expensive void periods.

• Don’t get attached - First and foremost landlords need to keep in mind that the property is a business venture and not get too attached. Remove any personal items, declutter and ensure the hard work put into bringing the property to market pays off.

• Curb-side appeal – Make the home look good on the outside – tidy outdoor space, mow lawns, weed gardens and clean windows

• If it’s broke, fix it – Ensure any necessary repairs are completed. If there’s damp or condensation get a free report from a damp proofing specialist. In the interim ventilate the property and use a dehumidifier.

• Out with the old – If appliances are very old and appear worn, replace them with new. This does not have to be an expensive process as there are some very attractive low-cost supermarket brands.

• Furnish attractively - If it’s a furnished let ensure the furniture is of a good standard and appeals to the masses. You’re more likely to let a property unfurnished than with tatty and worn items. Places like Ikea have some great bargain furniture.

• Finishing touches – Just like selling a property, it helps to make the home look and feel homely. So lay the dining table and include some simple neutral decorative features.

• Define spaces – Declutter rooms and make it clear what rooms are to be utilised as. Ensure a bedroom looks like a bedroom, place a desk in a study, a dining area should have a table and chairs.

• Decorate – A lick of paint can transform a home. Use neutral colours like white and magnolia, they’re proven as the most popular and attractive for home buyers and work just the same for rented property.

• Clean and tidy – Eradicate any nasty smells such as pet smells and cigarette smoke. It might be worthwhile investment to employ the services of a professional cleaner.

• A warm welcome – For Winter viewings turn the heating on and fire going before your prospective tenants arrive. They’re more likely to feel cosy and at home and spend time in the property.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ajay Jagota .