When potential tenants browse the market for rental units, they’re primarily looking for units within their budget and in their targeted location. Once they shorten their list, they consider additional factors, such as the amenities, property condition, pet policy, and sometimes restrictions on cannabis use.
Missing out on several factors can turn tenants away, but note that in Sacramento city and county, property owners are getting hit with massive fines for their tenants’ illegal cannabis growth. Fortunately, there are simple ways to attract new tenants without risking cannabis appeals from a real estate law attorney.
“Walk the Wall” to inspect the property for needed repairs and touch-ups
Qualified tenants tend to look for units that are well maintained and functional. Ideally, the unit should be 100% ready to move into when you host showings or take photos to share with potential tenants. Even if you’ve solidified your plans to fix your unit’s scratched stovetops, replace broken blinds, and shampoo the carpet, tenants prefer proof. Otherwise, they might think you’ll shortside them with cheap fixes that have little to no aesthetic appeal.
Before putting your available unit on the market, inspect the property’s interior and exterior for areas to repair or improve. Professional property managers do so by walking the wall. This involves scanning your unit by standing on the left side of the entrance door, then walking along the wall until you reach the right side of the door. This leaves no inch of the unit ignored.
Certain repairs might not be required, such as a chipped countertop, but tenants will appreciate your efforts and be more likely to care for the property. Other efforts that will be greatly appreciated are repainted walls, new carpet, energy-efficient kitchen appliances, and a vibrant landscape.
Clean your property inside and out
If your property is fully functional and doesn’t require repairs, tenants will appreciate a complete top-to-bottom cleaning. You might hire a professional cleaner to go through each room, nook, and cranny to rid the unit of dust, mold, and stains. If your unit has carpeted floors, a deep shampooing can make the unit feel like new.
Outside your property, clean the gutters, sidewalk, touch up the landscaping, and consider power washing for driveways, carports, and stained sidewalks. The exterior is the first thing tenants see when they visit showings. Unkempt landscaping, scuffed pavement, and clogged gutters can turn away qualified tenants and convince them that your property isn’t worth caring for.
Show tenants you care for their living experience
Ultimately, tenants want to live in a unit that is managed by someone who cares about its appearance and functionality. Anything that shows you want to give tenants a great living experience will put you at the top of their mind when they submit their applications. And for a speedy process the next time a unit clears, create and follow an apartment turnover checklist.