Potential tenants start their apartment or rental property search by looking for units within their budget and target community. After they single out units for further investigation, they consider additional factors, such as unit amenities (dryer/washer, dishwasher, etc.), pet policies, and carports. Sometimes they look for units that allow cannabis use or growth.
Though you might turn away tenants with cannabis restrictions, in Sacramento county, property owners are getting hit with six-figure fines for their tenants’ illegal cannabis growth. Fortunately, there are easier ways to attract tenants without risking cannabis appeals from a real estate law attorney well versed in the risk of leasing to cannabis growers.
Inspect your rental property for repairs and opportunities for improvement
Tenants prefer functional units that are maintained. Show tenants exactly what they’re getting by making your unit 100% ready to move into when you host showings. Even if you tell prospective tenants you have plans to fix your unit’s scuffed flooring, install new blinds, and shampoo the carpet, it’s better to have physical proof. Otherwise, potential tenants won’t know if you’re planning to use cheap materials or labor.
Before showing your rental unit, inspect its interior and exterior for repairs and improvement opportunities by walking the wall. Professional property managers use this process to check every inch of the unit. Begin by standing on the left wall of the entrance door, then walking along the wall until you return to where you’ve started.
You don’t need to repair everything, and some might be too minor to consider, like a chipped countertop, but people are more likely to take care of things that look nice. Other efforts that will be greatly appreciated are new carpet or flooring, updated kitchen appliances, and repainted walls.
Thoroughly clean your property
If your rental unit is fully functional and doesn’t need repairs, you should give it a top-to-bottom cleaning. Consider hiring a professional cleaner to get into every nook and cranny to rid the unit of mold, stains, and dust. If your unit has carpeted floors, hiring a carpet cleaner to make it like new.
As for the exterior, touch up your property’s landscaping, clear the gutters, and consider power washing the driveways and sidewalks. Messy landscaping, stained pavement, and overflowing gutters can turn away qualified tenants and convince them that your property isn’t worth caring for.
Ultimately, show potential tenants that you care
When potential tenants make their final apartment selections, they’ll be looking for a unit in good condition that is managed by someone who cares for a great living experience. For a speedy process the next time a unit empties, follow an apartment turnover checklist so you can keep your property full.