Many
landlords believe that a quick sweep through the home prepares it for a new
resident, but this is not enough as they are missing some crucial steps. Here
are a few simple steps to ensure that your home is in tip-top shape and ready
for a new occupant.
One: Re-key the
Locks
Yes,
you collected the keys from the resident, but did they make spares? All outside
locking doors should be re-keyed between each resident. Additionally, rotate the
codes on any garage doors, access gates, exterior property gates, and
mailboxes.
Two: Maintenance Assessment
Do
a thorough evaluation of home. Check for leaking pipes and electrical
functionality, light bulbs and fixtures, garbage disposals, cabinets, windows
and screens, window treatments, heating and cooling devices, doors, etc. This
should also include replacing air filters and batteries in smoke and carbon
monoxide detectors. The more detailed evaluation, the better!
Three: Upgrades or Repairs
More
costly repairs are tricky to complete with a resident in the home. Assess the
condition of all flooring materials, paint, bathtub surrounds, and major
appliances. Now would be the time to make and repairs or replacements.
Four: Exterior Clean
Up
Don’t
just look inside, look outside, too! Haul any debris from the yard, trim the
trees, prune the bushes, and cut the grass. First glance needs to show the
tenant how you want them to maintain the exterior and if there are weeds and
debris you are not setting a good example!
Five: Cleaning
Even
the best residents don’t often clean well enough. If needed hire a professional
cleaning service for the job and get the carpets professionally cleaned. It
makes all the difference in how the home shows and how quickly it rents.
These
simple tasks will help you get your home in tip top shape quickly and easily. The
better the home shows the more likely you will be able to place a tenant quickly.
The last task would be to get your marketing done and get the home listed on the
rental sites to place your next tenant!
