Ever wondered why some rental properties sizzle and others fizzle? Here are some renovation tips that help you get the best rent while pumping up the value of your property.
Having a rental property at a time when the market is running low on available lots is every landlord’s dream. However, don’t let the numbers fool you into complacency. Low vacancy rates do not automatically translate to higher rental income if your property is not up to market standard.
“An owner needs to maintain the property in a proper manner. We see it too often that owners let property deteriorate and don’t spend or have budget for an ongoing maintenance program. Not only does your asset depreciate, but you’re not getting the best return in terms of the rent,” says Bob Walters, Director, Leading Property Managers of Australia (LPMA).
According to Karen Herbert, owner of specialist Property Management firm, Position One Property Brisbane Centre says: getting the maximum rental value depends on several key factors: transportation, location, price and presentation. “Tenants are looking for units that are close to public transport, security in terms of the kind of neighbourhood they’re in, the rental price and how well the property is maintained,” she says. If your property is not near a public transport link or in the best neighbourhood, don’t lose heart, there are plenty of ways for you to enhance rental returns.
Here are our Top Rental Property Renovation Tips:
Present it like a pro
With the market for rentals being so tight, potential tenants are quick to make decisions. Having a well-presented house or unit will give you the greatest opportunity to attract the best tenants and snap them up without delay. Scrimping and saving on costs is not the best way to go. Instead, consider installing quality bathroom and kitchen fixtures. We strongly recommend not overlooking this particular renovation tip. First impressions are critical.
Have the property professionally cleaned
Gail Condoleon, business owner of Dynamic Cleaners in Brisbane and rental property owner advises to always keep lawns mown and the outdoor area tidy for any inspections. ” Prior to letting, have the place professionally cleaned including carpets and windows. An attractive property helps to attract a good tenant who will look after it,” she says.
Use neutral and soft furnishings
It is a good idea to avoid highly personalised furnishing and colour schemes in order to appeal to a broader range of tenants. “The home needs to be fairly neutral. It’s no good if your colour scheme is personal, because it might not appeal to many people out there in the rental market.”
Use quality carpets and curtains
Stay away from cheap vertical blinds that blow and break when the windows are open. While they are cheap to install they don’t help with the presentation of the property and need to be replaced sooner. Likewise, reconsider the type of carpets or flooring you will be installing. It should be tough enough to handle a lot of wear and tear, but still presentable. Some of the more modern commercial carpets are worth consideration. This is one of our most valuable renovation tips.
Make sure things work
It’s no good having a beautifully presented dwelling if a tap doesn’t work. Ensure that all the basic facilities such as hot water system and plumbing are functioning well. Ovens, stove elements and refrigerators should also be fully functional and well cleaned. Consider getting these checked and serviced on a regular basis. By ensuring that your property is in good condition through regular maintenance, you avoid costly repairs further down the track.
Security is now a big issue
Check that all doors and windows are properly maintained and have secure locks. Many tenants cannot get insurance for their contents if the security is not adequate in the property. You may need to consider installing deadlocks and window locks to attract a long term tenant
Extras are now not a luxury but a necessity
Most tenants come with their own appliances and nick-knacks. However, some extra appliances – such as a dishwasher and air conditioning – can now be a deciding factor for a lot of tenants. Keep in mind however, that any appliance you put in is your responsibility to maintain or repair.
Install built-in cupboards and wardrobe cabinets
Cupboards are painful to move, and hard to live without. So, people tend to rent places with lots of built-in storage.
Provide a separate internal laundry facility if possible
You don’t need to supply the washing machine, but if the laundry area is internal and separate, it could be a huge benefit. It’s one of those things that you yourself will consider an essential feature.
Car parking is a big plus
Providing an off-street covered and lock up garage will enhance your property value considerably. Two would be even better!
Keep gardens simple
Gardens may help boost your rental value in theory. However, according to rental property owner Livvy James, gardens are quite difficult to justify. “We try to keep our gardens fairly basic. It’s unfair to have all these plants and expect your tenant to take care of them. I just think you have to be realistic how much gardening you can do, especially with the issue of water rationing as well. As long as the front lawn is reasonably well maintained and mowed, that’s as good as you can reasonably expect,” she says. Otherwise include it in the rent.
Set realistic expectations
Trying to get the highest rent may not necessarily result in a better rental return if you cannot keep reliable tenants. It’s crucial that you don’t price yourself out of the market by embarking on a very expensive renovation. Best advice is to contact your local Property Manager to get an indication on what tenants are looking for in a rental property in the area.
Go for long-term tenants
The benefits of establishing long-term tenants include:
- less need to redecorate and renovate between leases;
- long-term tenants tend to take care of the property for themselves;
- less vacant time means more returns in the long run; and finally
- it’s just easier and less stressful to manage.
Therefore, be prepared to be flexible to keep a good long-term tenant.
Follow our tried and tested renovation tips for your investment property to maximise returns! Be sure to also engage an experienced and professional property manager. Call Position One Property today for a complimentary discussion of your property management requirements.