It’s a competitive market so as a first-time landlord, you’ll want to make your property as attractive as possible to potential tenants. Applying the correct décor and having the right kind of furnishings can make all the difference and reduce the time your property has to stand empty, earning you no money at all. Here are some handy tips for decorating a house or flat you want to rent out:
- The Floors
If you’re going for carpet then choose neither light nor dark but opt for a mid-tone that won’t obviously show up stains or dirt too much. It’s tempting to always go for the budget option as a landlord but think about how often a cheap carpet might need replacing, especially if it is subject to several rounds of professional cleaning. Laminate flooring is also preferred by many people these days in high traffic areas due to its durability and ease of cleaning. For a Gloucester Estate Agent, visit tg residential.
- Furnishings
If you’re offering a property on an unfurnished basis then you only need to supply the very basics but furnished properties can be perfect for professionals on temporary working contracts in different areas of the country. Furniture you would need to provide, as a minimum include:
Sofa and coffee table – lounge
Table and Chairs – Dining Room/Kitchen
Bed and Bedside Tables – Bedrooms
Desk and Chair – in bedrooms for student market
Fridge/Freezer, Washing Machine and Cooker – Kitchen
- Painting
Most people would agree that sticking to neutral colours assures that everyone should be kept happy. Neutral colours will blend well with any style or colour of furniture or furnishings so tenants can move straight in and won’t feel the need to ask about redecorating. Choosing a satin finish will make the walls easier to clean between tenancies and a durable acrylic or latex paint should reduce the need to redecorate all the time.
Using tiles as much as you can in kitchens and bathrooms is also a good idea as these rooms are prone to moisture and mould. Tiles are tough, protect the walls and are easier to clean and maintain. Opt for a dark tile with dark grouting so avoid that grubby white grouting issue.
Once mould takes a hold, it’s very difficult to get rid of and comes with related health problems that you don’t want to have to deal with if your tenants get sick. When it comes to mould, prevention is much better, and cheaper, than cure so be sure to install an extractor fan in the bathroom for example and deal with the root causes of mould as soon as any becomes visible. Use a mould-resistant paint above your tiling for additional protection.
- Viewings
Before allowing prospective tenants to view your property, make sure it’s had a good clean after the last tenants. Tenants will be wanting to step inside and imagine themselves living there so pay close attention to cleaning the windows, sinks and toilets. Allow lots of natural light in and open up the windows to allow fresh air to circulate in the property.
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