You are in the transition period between tenants, commonly known as a turnover. This can be a great time to take stock of what needs to be cleaned or repaired but it is also a time where you can perhaps spruce up the place to make it more attractive.
Doing this allows you to attract long-term, quality tenants. This makes your rental property more stable and gives you peace of mind knowing that your property is in good hands and not being mistreated.
Here are a few things that you should do before completing the turnover process and renting out the property again.
Clean and Deodorize
It is a good rule of thumb that, in the turnover period, you take the time to clean the entire unit. The bathrooms and kitchen are especially important as there can be a buildup of grime that can make those rooms less attractive.
Using a strong detergent as well as a disinfecting cleaner can help you to get everything feeling new once again. This will help you to attract quality tenants because they will see it as a new, clean space that they can envision themselves in.
Test Appliances
Clean appliances that work properly are both obvious and a selling point to tenants. Far too many landlords skimp on the costs of proper maintenance and then have difficulty finding reliable tenants.
Take time to verify that the water heater pilot is working, that the dryer vents are cleaned, that the dishwasher runs properly, and so on. These relatively easy, quick steps can make your property more attractive to potential tenants, making it easier for you to rent out.
Change the Locks
Unfortunately, you never know what your previous tenants will do and whether they have copies of your keys. For the safety of your property and future tenants, change out the locks before renting it out again. This will provide you peace of mind knowing that any disgruntled former tenants can’t simply waltz in through the front door.