What every landlord needs to know to attract and retain good tenants

Our lettings and property management officer Jennifer Allen, has some top tips every landlord needs to know to attract and retain good tenants. Jen, who has been an estate agent for 9 years ensures her landlords follow correct legislation and that their properties are a good standard before letting. ‘If your house can withstand the weather, your tenant may last forever!’ Jen says.

Pre-tenancy tips for landlords: 

1. Spruce up your property with a fresh lick of paint 

A fresh paint job goes a long way. To appeal to as many prospective tenants as possible, keep your property decorated neutrally with modern chrome effect finishes on your taps and door handles. Any good letting agent can share knowledge about colour schemes and current tenant preferences that fit within your budget. 

2. Keep the cushions for your own home 

Remove all furnishings from the property, whether they’re fire resistant or not. You are required to replace anything in your property like for like in the event of damage. You don’t want to be responsible for your tenant’s curtains. But you do want to fix curtain poles (over wooden batons to protect your walls) above each window so you can be sure they’ve been fitted properly and avoid any drilling mishaps! Allow your tenants to stamp their personality on their new home with splashes of colour and pattern through their choice of furnishings.  

3. White goods? A bit of a grey area 

Most tenants will supply their own white goods. But if your tenant is missing a washing machine or fridge and requests one, it would be generous as a landlord to provide one. However, this isn’t a requirement. Bear in mind, anything you provide which is not gifted remains your responsibility to fix or replace if damaged and all portable appliances provided should be PAT tested.