How to Prepare Your Property for Lease

Gaining new tenants can be a win for landlords and property owners. You can consider a rent increase, problematic renters move on, and you’re free to make some updates and focus on property maintenance.

How well you prepare your property for lease can impact how long your unit sits on the market. It can also save unnecessary stress by trying to make repairs after tenants move in. Here are 12 ways to give your property an upgrade.

1. Think Curb Appeal

It’s not just what happens inside your property; the curb appeal is what rents out units. Give your landscaping some attention and go beyond trimming the `shrubs and mowing the lawn. Add some new plants or shrubs and include your front porch or balconies in your property maintenance efforts. A cozy seating area is also appealing to renters looking to enjoy their outdoor space.

2. Add a Fresh Coat of Paint

Renters want to feel like their new home is sparkling new, even if you’ve been renting out your units for years. Freshen up your walls and all surfaces with a fresh coat of pain. Try a neutral color that brightens the room, including beige, tan, or grey. These colors make it easier for tenants to match their furniture and home accessories. We recommend Manchester Tan or Classic Gray from Benjamin Moore.

3. Go Pro with Your Cleaning

It’s always possible to clean on your own, but professionals are skilled at getting your units ready for tenants. Cleaners come equipped with professional-grade equipment and products to make your units feel spotless. You’ll also free up valuable property maintenance time so you can focus on marketing your property.

4. Give Your Floors Some Attention

Floors can show their age quickly without a little care and intervention. Shampoo all carpets and give them plenty of time to dry and release any odors. If needed have your floors sanded or buffed and coated to look their best.

5. Check Your Bulbs and Detectors

Tenants may overlook bulbs and detectors at first glance but still expect to live in a safe place. Change out all light bulbs and double-check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. We recommend buying a case of LED light bulbs to ensure the hue of the light matches throughout the unit. Set aside the extras to ensure you have back-ups for years to come.

6. Clear Out the Leftovers

Clear out reminders of past tenants in the basement, garage, or other storage areas. If you can’t return the items, donate them to charity, or hire a junk hauling company to take away larger items. Tenants will appreciate the extra storage without having to look at your last tenant’s leftovers.

7. Make a Good First Impression

Think like a tenant and take inventory of what you see. The entryway should be in good shape with new paint and repairs to any stairs, railings, or common areas. Your hallways should also be cleaned and well lit to make your property feel as welcoming as possible.

8. Check Your Mailboxes and Doorbells

Add doorbells and mailboxes to your property maintenance list. Doorbells can stop working without warning and often need new batteries or a replacement. Mailboxes can also collect junk mail around the hallway, need a quick clean, or require a replacement key.

9. Give Your Appliances a Refresh

Appliances can quickly age a rental property and need to be checked periodically. Ensure all appliances are clean and in good working order. If the property has stainless steel, make sure you’re using appropriate cleaners that won’t cause rust or other damage. And if your appliances do need to be replaced, it will be easier to address while your unit is empty and before new tenants move in.

10. Check Your Trash and Recycling Bins

When was the last time you checked your trash and recycling bins? Look for any damage and replace bins and barrels that are beyond repair. Remember to check both common property bins as well as individual units while addressing your property maintenance.

11. Check Your HVAC

Hot summers and cold winters can make or break your tenants’ experience. Give your air conditioning and heating systems a thorough check, change out any filters, and perform regular service to avoid damage. Preventative maintenance is always easier when a unit is vacant and will avoid costly emergency repairs-especially during winter months!

12. Scrutinize Maintenance Needs

Preventative property maintenance is vital in keeping costs down and tenants happy. Do a walk-through of your entire property or units and address any maintenance issues. Whether doorknobs are loose or locks are sticking, take care of everything before tenants show up ready to sign.

Ready to rent? Work through our list of 12 ways to prepare your property for lease and attract the tenants you’re looking for.