LANDLORD TIPS
A PRACTICAL STARTING POINT
01 Start with the condition
Walk through the property as a tenant would. Deal with obvious damage, tired finishes and anything that could make the property feel poorly maintained.
Repairs
Fix obvious damage, leaks, loose fittings and anything that could make the property feel poorly maintained.
Decoration
Touch up tired paintwork and worn finishes. Clean, neutral presentation usually photographs and views better.
Fixtures & fittings
Check doors, windows, lights, appliances and anything supplied with the property is working properly.
02 Get ready for viewings
First impressions matter. A clean, tidy and well-presented property will photograph better and give prospective tenants more confidence when they view it.
Clean and tidy
Clean throughout, remove clutter and make each room feel bright, fresh and ready for viewings.
First impressions
Tidy the entrance, move bins out of sight and make sure any outside or communal areas look presentable.
Light and space
Open curtains and blinds, switch on lights and avoid overcrowding rooms so the property feels as spacious as possible.
03 Get the compliance in place
Before marketing, make sure the property has the required safety checks, certificates and documents in place so the tenancy can start smoothly.
Safety certificates
Make sure the required safety checks and certificates are valid, up to date and ready before the property is let.
Licensing & permissions
Check whether the property needs any licence or other permission, and make sure everything required is in place.
Documents ready
Keep the EPC, safety certificates and key tenancy paperwork organised so nothing delays the move-in.
04 Find the right tenant
Good preparation helps attract better enquiries, but choosing the right tenant matters just as much. Market clearly, carry out proper checks and set expectations from the start.
Marketing
Use clear photos, an accurate description and a sensible asking rent to attract the right level of interest.
Tenant checks
Reference applicants properly and check affordability, identity and Right to Rent before agreeing the tenancy.
Set expectations
Make sure the tenant understands the rent, property responsibilities and how the tenancy will be managed from the start.
05 Prepare for move-in
Once a tenant is agreed, make sure everything is ready for a smooth handover. Sort the final checks, keys and property information before the tenancy begins.
Final checks
Walk through the property one last time and make sure agreed repairs, cleaning and preparation work have been completed.
Keys & access
Prepare enough working keys for the tenants and make sure access arrangements are clear before move-in day.
Property information
Have important instructions, appliance information and useful property details ready for the tenant.
06 Keep everything organised
Good records make managing the tenancy much easier. Keep important documents, communication and property information together from the very beginning.
Tenancy documents
Keep the tenancy agreement, deposit information and supporting documents stored safely and easy to access.
Property records
Keep copies of certificates, inspections, inventories and maintenance records together and up to date.
Financial records
Keep clear records of rent, invoices and property costs so you always know where things stand.
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