We have spent a
lot of time in properties getting them to look as good as possible and
advising landlords on how to make the most of the property. Here are 5 top tips
to consider.
1.
Sometimes a landlord has to go back to basics and
replace flooring. With any interior choices for a property it is tempting to
assert your own taste, or to go for whatever is cheapest. Neither will give you
the outcome you want.
You need to
think practically: look at up-to date materials whose features will prolong the
need to repurchase again in the future and always have any flooring or carpeting
fitted professionally.
Most importantly,
think about the outcomes of your choices: the noise from bare or wooden floors which
can upset the neighbours, the wear and tear to high traffic areas, and the colour
choices that will suit the interior and furniture that may already be in place.
2.
Window dressing is more than just an aesthetic consideration
for a rental property. Blocking out the light from a bedroom can improve the
quality of your tenants’ sleep and make them happier in their home.
Whilst ready-made
curtains may not be expensive, they come sometimes with thermal linings that
will improve the temperature in the property and help also to keep energy bills
down.
3.
In our experience there is little difference
between a box and a frame bed if it is solid in construction. It is the
mattress that makes all the difference.
Invest in a bed
frame rather than a box if you want to create the feeling of more space and
invest in an orthopedic mattress if you want to ensure you have a happy tenant.
4.
Do not dump old furniture that you no longer want
into a rental property. It will already have most of the life knocked out of it
and will require replacing sooner rather than later.
It is possible
the furniture may not meet all the necessary legal requirements and, most
likely, it will not be the right size for the room. Crowding a property with
too much furniture will turn off a potentially good tenant.
Smaller, better
designed, scaled pieces of furniture, are not hard to come by and your property
agent will advise you on which pieces, materials and design last longest and should
even be in a position to purchase them for you.
5.
Never under estimate the need for storage,
especially in a bedroom. A few shelves will not attract a good tenant. Invest
in few sturdy matching, scaled pieces of bedroom furniture.
A double
wardrobe, matching drawers, and if you providing for student accommodation, a
desk, is always a winner.
For more information please get in touch www.douglasdickson.co.uk