Remove all objects off the countertops to give your property a clean, “finished” look.
Just like a first date, your property’s first impression counts. Take the time to prepare your unit and spruce it up so that it’s ready to impress and win prospective renters. After all, these renters are looking for their next home, and want to avoid properties that look ragged or unkempt.
“Stage” your property to look its best. Don’t make this a last minute project, because depending on the property’s condition, you may have to spend a few days working on it. Staging your rental doesn’t have to break the bank, either.
Use these 3 tips to cheaply prepare your rental property for a showing that will close deals:
Tip #1: Repaint the rooms.
Chipping paint shows landlord neglect and makes the unit look aged. It’s a good idea to do a quick repaint all of the rooms if the last paint job was two years or more. Avoid paints that are dark, since they make rooms seem smaller. Instead, choose colors that are off-white, to make your unit seem more spacious.
Tip #2: Clean, clean, then clean some more.
Do-it-yourself cleaning is a very cost-efficient way of prepping your unit for a showing. While some may think cleaning a property before a showing is common sense, there are lot of small things landlords tend to miss. Make sure you get into every nook and cranny so that your property is spotless.
Here’s a list of items to add to your cleaning “To Do” list:
- Dust, sweep and vacuum. – If there are badly stained or torn flooring, you should replace them.
- Wipe down windows and mirrors. – Make sure there are no spots!
- Remove everything from counters. – The “lived-in” look isn’t good. Less clutter is better.
- Change the shower curtain. – Every tenant should have a brand new one.
- Make sure appliances are spotless. – Pay attention especially to kitchen and bathroom appliances. For sanitary reasons, you want to make sure that these places are especially clean.
Tip #3: Set the ambiance.
Setting the mood in your property for prospective tenants can help close deals. Appeal to their senses by lighting some scented candles or pleasant air fresheners. Another cheap trick is to boil spiced apple cider in a pot over the stove, which leaves a pleasant scent throughout the house. Play soothing music like jazz, easy listening or classical music. Turn on all the lights, so the prospective tenant can see all the rooms.
Bonus: Keep all of your receipts, because they may be tax deductible. Also, when you put all the work into fixing up the apartment now, you don’t have to worry about fixing it after the tenant moves in.
