The viewing process is a chance to sell your property and show why it’s so great. Your goal is to find somebody eager to sign the rental application form. But a beautiful home design is always a big part of any successful rental viewing.
Why Design Matters For Rental Viewings
Some landlords just display the property as-is for viewings. They might think a tenant’s need for a home outweighs their need for strong aesthetics, for example. But you may be missing out on model tenants this way. Always make an effort to show off your property to potential renters.
This approach helps you find people who will truly love their next home. Even in today’s market, tenants have standards. They’ll want to find the right place as much as you want to find the right renter. They also want a landlord who’ll keep the property in good condition.
Finding the Right Color Scheme
Your property’s color scheme will stand out to renters. This may even form the basis of their first impression. Different colors also have different “effects”. White and other neutral tones will make your space look larger, for example.
Neutral colors also make your property a blank canvas. People can more easily imagine exactly how their belongings will look in the home. If your last tenants repainted the walls or added their own decorations, consider how others might feel about this.
Don’t be afraid to give the home some personality. Subtle accents might be a less obtrusive way to do this. But it could still pay off to, for example, paint the bedroom in soft blues and promote a calming atmosphere.
Natural or Artificial Light?
You might not have much control over the property’s lighting during a viewing. The time of day is sure to play a big part in this. But you can use both natural and artificial light to your advantage.
Natural light shows the home exactly how it’ll look during the day. The rooms will feel bigger and the light will even accentuate the colors and features well. Showing off your home’s natural light also means renters won’t have to use lamps during the day.
Artificial light, however, can still look great. Check through the property to see if your lighting will be enough on a sun-free day. Consider adding extra ambient fixtures or accent lights. LED bulbs are a very efficient lighting option — they might even look more natural.
Checking Your Home’s Fixtures
Your property should have a full suite of modern conveniences. This may include sleek cabinets and streamlined metal handles, as well as solid surface worktops. On top of this, stainless steel appliances are both timeless and durable.
These additions might run up the property’s price. This is why you need to make sure they offer renters as much value as possible. However, keep an eye on nearby rental rates. Your property design choices (and upgrades) shouldn’t take you far beyond these prices.
You should also consider adding extra storage. Especially if the home’s relatively small. This will make sure there’s enough space to safely store all of a tenant’s belongings. Built-in wardrobes, bigger cabinets, and pull-out pantries are just a few great space-saving measures.
Making Smart Furniture Choices
Your home’s furniture should be functional and aesthetically-pleasing. Anyone viewing the place may want to try sitting in the chairs and couch before committing. Comfortable furniture could be what pushes them to sign the lease. If you don’t have any, this could also push renters away.
Modular and multipurpose furniture will add more practicality. For example, tenants may be able to split the couch into different seats. Some tables and chairs even offer built-in storage. This could convince renters to stick with a smaller property.
Your furniture must fit the room’s size. You should also position it in a way that makes sense. It’s not wise to just keep everything how the previous tenants left it, for example.
Managing Outdoor Spaces
Tenants aren’t just viewing the inside — they’ll also look at the outside. Make sure you mow and water your lawn before viewings start. If you have a garden, neutral plants help you appeal to a broad range of renters. Busy gardens can also dissuade renters if they’ll have to take care of it.
You could also add outdoor furniture to show the yard’s social potential. Use rust-resistant metal chairs and tables, especially if you live in a rainy state. You should also ask yourself if the home has enough fencing. Consider adding more if you’re not sure — some renters will want as much privacy as possible.
Conclusion
You need to put work into your home before proudly showing it off. The time between tenants is a great opportunity to refresh your property. You should always make the most of this to guarantee each and every detail amazes potential renters.
