Before you can begin marketing your rental property and choosing a tenant, you need to ensure the home is ready for the rental market. A property that’s move-in ready will rent for more money, and it will rent faster. You’ll also attract better tenants, and a rent-ready property will also encourage your tenants to keep the property in excellent condition during the tenancy.
Pay attention to these essential things when you’re preparing your Colorado Springs home for the rental market.
Cleanliness and Curb Appeal
Your first step is to make sure the home is completely clean. If you or another tenant has been living there, be sure that all personal possessions are cleared out. Don’t leave behind furniture or linens or anything else. Have the property professionally cleaned. Every part of the house should be scrubbed, dusted, and polished. Good tenants will never move into another person’s dirt. Before you start showing the property or taking marketing photos, you need a completely clean home.
On the outside of the property, make sure you have attractive curb appeal. First impressions are very important, and you want to create a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. Make sure the lawn is cut and the windows are clean. Clear away any debris or cobwebs. Fix up peeling paint and check the exterior lighting.
Make All Necessary Repairs
Once the place is clean and looking good inside and out, you need to fix and replace anything that isn’t working. Never show a property that still has work that needs to be done. Check all of the faucets and look under sinks for evidence of leaks or problems. Caulk the showers and tubs and change any light bulbs that have burnt out. Test the electrical outlets and turn on the appliances. Examine the roof and the condition of every door, drawer, and cabinet. You have to be thorough; otherwise prospective tenants will be turned off by the lack of care. Even if you manage to place a tenant when things are broken, you’ll only have to respond to maintenance requests immediately after they move in. Take care of the property and make sure it’s ready to be occupied before you list it on the market.
Consider Upgrades and Updates
There’s no need to completely renovate a property before you rent it out, but it may be worth the investment to make a few small upgrades and updates. For example, if your paint is chipped or stained in a few areas on the wall, paint the whole wall. Touch-up work can look messy. If you have carpets that are stained or difficult to clean, replace them. Consider installing hard surface flooring, which is easier to clean and maintain. Tenants will appreciate that. New fixtures on sinks and drawers can also make a difference. If your refrigerator is 20 years old and makes a lot of noise, replace it. The goal is to make your property look new and interesting without spending a lot of money.
These are just a few of the things you’ll need to do when you’re getting your property rent-ready. Once it’s in perfect condition, you’re ready to take some marketing photos and begin the advertising process.
We’re here to help. When you have a Colorado Springs property to rent, please contact us at Muldoon Associates.
