Letting go of a property is a lot more than simply handing over the keys to a new landlord and hoping for the best. It’s a job that requires a lot of preparation and planning. So, if you have decided that it is time to sell one of your properties and want to make the most out of it you need to adequately prepare your property, and this will likely require some renovations to be carried out.
But how can you make the most out of your property without spending a fortune?
Structural repairs
Undertaking structural repairs is going to be the most important foundational part of the process. This means fixing broken windows and doors and filling in cracks around skirting boards, windows and door frames with decorator’s caulk that can then be covered with paint or wallpaper. You should also ensure that the plumbing is safe and fit for use. This is the bare minimum you’re going to want to work on to ensure your property is fit for rental.
Depersonalisation
People that are looking to live in a property want to see it almost as a blank slate upon which to lay their own ideas. Depersonalise the décor with light and neutral colours that are liked by everyone and allow people to imagine themselves living in the property and lend it their own colour schemes and ideas.
Furnished or unfurnished
There are two schools of thought here. One that assumes that people want to do as little as possible and are quite happy to move into a property that has everything already set and one that assumes they want to put their own stamp on it, so to speak. It depends on the people that you wish to attract. Usually, younger people tend to prefer furnished apartments, whereas families and older people might prefer unfurnished ones. So, consider your target audience before making your decision.
Upgrading appliances
Upgrading kitchen appliances could also be a good idea to attract more buyers. The kitchen is one of the most important places in the house, and a modern and well-kept kitchen can make the difference in the offers you will receive. If you’re going to be upgrading one appliance, however, you might as well go ahead and upgrade them all so this is likely to be an expensive refit.
Prepare the Energy Performance Certificate
The EPC is compulsory for all landlords. Ranking the energy performance of the property from A to G, the certificate is valid for 10 years and with energy prices rising higher than ever, getting a low rating could really make your property more valuable.
Get professionals to clean your house
Finally, before you start showing people around, get a professional cleaning crew in to make everything feel spotless. You’d be amazed at what a team of professionals can achieve in very little time with the right equipment.