As a landlord, one of your primary goals is to ensure your rental property stands out in the Edinburgh competitive market.
What do you get back from your investment?
- Reduce vacancy periods, equals reduced costs
- Wider pool of applications to choose from
- Help attract high-quality renters who are willing to pay a premium
The good news is that you don’t need to invest a fortune to achieve this. Here are some practical tips, and small investments, we can help you with that will make a big difference.
1.MODERNISE THE KITCHEN
The kitchen is often the heart of the home, and a modern, functional kitchen can be a major selling point.
- Update Appliances: Invest in stainless steel or energy-efficient appliances. They don’t have to be top-of-the-line, but they should look modern and in good condition.
- Cabinet Refresh: If replacing cabinets is out of budget, consider painting them and updating the hardware for a fresh look.
- Countertops: Replace old countertops with more durable and attractive materials, laminate can be a good choice if it’s modern and in good condition.
2.REVAMP THE BATHROOMS
Bathrooms are another area where small updates can make a big impact.
- Fixtures and Fittings: Update old fixtures like faucets, showerheads, and towel racks. Choose modern, matching styles to create a cohesive look.
- Caulking and Grout: Clean and re-caulk the tub and shower areas. Fresh grout can make tile work look brand new.
- Lighting and Mirrors: Replace outdated light fixtures and consider adding a larger or more stylish mirror.
3.FRESH PAINT & FLOORING
A fresh coat of paint can transform a space and make it feel new and clean.
- Neutral Colors: Choose neutral colors like beige, gray, or white, which appeal to a wide range of tenants and make the space look larger and brighter.
- De Personalise: remove unnecessary decorations, your taste is not everyones taste.
- Flooring: Replace old carpets with durable, easy-to-clean flooring like vinyl plank or laminate. If hardwood floors are present, consider refinishing them to bring back their original beauty.
4.BE PET FRIENDLY
With more tenants having furry babies than ever, this is definitely a competitive advantage.
- Pet Policies: We can clearly outline your pet policies & preferances, including any increased deposit or breed restrictions.
5.INCREASE STORAGE SPACE
Storage is at a premium in the city center, make sure your tenants have space to spread.
- Built-ins: where you can add built-in shelves or cabinets in living areas or bathrooms
- Clear out: all internal cupboards leaving only the essentials
6.ENERGY EFFICIENCY
In a time when everyone is worried about money, a poor EPC rating can turn a tenant off.
- Insulation and Windows: Ensure the property is well-insulated and consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows.
- Smart Thermostats: Install programmable or smart thermostats to help tenants manage their energy use more effectively.
- Centralised fitted heating system: gas or electric, it doesn’t matter so long as it is in good working order.
7.SECURITY FEATURES
Safety is a top priority for tenants, so consider enhancing the security of your property.
- Main door & Flat doors: Ensure all doors and windows have secure, working locks. Consider installing deadbolts.
8.OUTDOOR SPACES
If your property has outdoor space, make it a selling point.
- Patio or Deck: A well-maintained patio or deck can be a major draw. Ensure it’s clean, clear & in good repair.
9. PROFESSIONAL CLEANING
A spotless property makes a great first impression and shows that you care about maintenance and cleanliness.
By implementing these tips, you can significantly increase the appeal of your rental property. Small investments and attention to detail can make a big difference in how your property is perceived in the rental market.
If you are looking to upgrade, secure, or clean up your rental property we have a great team that can help you do that, & you don’t need to be a current client of ours, or even be looking to engage an agent, we’ve got you covered anyway! Please reach out to our amazing Home Repairs team here