How you present yourself and your properties is an important part of demonstrating value and thus filling vacancies quickly. Of course, the living space should be spotless and the landscape pristine, but there are also little things that you can do to help ensure that prospective tenants are receptive. Here are 5 tips to ensure your properties show well.
1. A Fresh Smell
The first thing a person notices when they enter a living space is the smell. Smells help form strong associations, and even a hint of mustiness will scare most prospective tenants away. A deep clean is the best way to ensure a great smell, but it may be days between the cleaning and the showing. Air it out in advance of showing it. The smell of fresh air and a fresh clean are best, but if there’s a tinge you can’t get gone, then go ahead and use potpourri or the like but nothing too heavy.
2. Clean Surfaces
Dust is a big turnoff. Some people are even revolted by it. Don’t assume that just because you’ve had the place professionally cleaned that it’s dust-free. It’s amazing how fast dust builds up. Dust again when you air the home out. You don’t have to do an extensive dusting. Just clean all surfaces, and spot checks molding, baseboards, shelves and so forth. Perhaps vacuum afterward.
3. Bathrooms and Kitchens that Sparkle
Kitchens and bathrooms are focal points that will either sink or secure a potential deal, so make them sparkle. Chrome should shine and mirrors should be smudge-free at the very least. It’s not a bad idea to add some accents, such as a bowl of fruit in the kitchen and some hand soaps and towels in the bathrooms.
4. Enhance Room Space
Make the most of the space you have available to make it more appealing. If the rental comes unfurnished, then showing it furnished may not be an option, but there are steps you can take. For instance, you can fill in large sections of hardwood and linoleum floors with area rugs that add hominess.
5. Patios and Balconies Are Features
Patios, balconies, pool sides and so forth are selling points. Ensure that they’re free of clutter, leaves and so on, but more importantly, show them off. Perhaps leave the shades open on sliding doors in order to draw attention to that space. If your place has a great view, then remove blinds and curtains from appropriate windows so people see it.