So, you own a property in our wonderful, sought-after town of Huddersfield, and you’re considering stepping into the world of letting. That’s a brilliant move! Huddersfield really is a special place, with its fascinating history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant community. It’s no wonder tenants are always keen to make it their home.
But with such a desirable location, how do you make sure your property truly stands out, attracts those ideal tenants, and helps you achieve the best possible rental income? Well, it all comes down to being prepared, and that’s where we come in. At Martin & Co Huddersfield, we’re here to share our top tips to get your property rent ready.
Presentation is Key
First impressions count for everything in the rental market. When you’re looking for something, whether it’s a car or a new outfit, you’re immediately drawn to what looks best. The same applies to property. A well-presented home not only attracts more interest but also appeals to higher quality tenants – those who appreciate a well-maintained space and are likely to look after it themselves.
A Deep Clean Like No Other: This isn’t just a quick tidy-up; we’re talking about a professional-level deep clean. Every nook and cranny should sparkle. This includes:
- Kitchens: Ovens, hobs, extractors, inside and outside of cupboards, and all surfaces should be pristine. Remove any equipment from surfaces and clear the sink. Remove cleaning products and bins.
- Bathrooms: Pay close attention to mirrors, taps, and inside the bath or shower. Store away personal items such as toothbrushes, soap, toiletries, medicines and beauty products.
- Flooring: Carpets should be professionally cleaned, and hard floors thoroughly scrubbed and polished.
- Windows: Inside and out, sparkling windows let in maximum light and create a brighter feel.
A Fresh Coat of Paint: You’d be amazed what a difference a fresh coat of neutral paint can make. It brightens rooms, covers minor imperfections, and provides a blank canvas that allows prospective tenants to envision their own belongings in the space. Stick to light, neutral colours like off-white, light grey, or magnolia – these have universal appeal and make rooms feel larger and airier.
Declutter and Depersonalise: While it might seem obvious, it’s easy to overlook personal items when you’re used to living in a space. Your photos, ornaments, and quirky décor are wonderful for your own home, but for a rental property, they can make it harder for others to see themselves living there. Remove personal items such as magazines, mobile devices, TV remotes, blankets and toys. A minimalist approach allows the property’s features to shine through.
Address Minor Repairs: Loose door handles, dripping taps, sticky windows, or a flickering light bulb – these small issues, if left unattended, can give the impression of a neglected property. Attend to them before viewings begin. It demonstrates that you’re a proactive landlord who cares about the property, instilling confidence in potential tenants.
Curb Appeal is Crucial
Don’t forget the outside! The exterior of your property is the very first thing potential tenants will see, often before they even step foot inside. Curb appeal plays a significant role in attracting viewings.
- Garden and Outdoor Areas: Ensure the garden is as presentable as possible, with the lawn mowed and plants well maintained. Brush or clean patio or decking areas too. Store outdoor equipment such as garden tools, toys and sports gear out of sight, hide wheelie bins and make sure garden furniture is well presented.
- Front Door and Entrance: Give your front door a good clean and consider a fresh lick of paint if needed. Ensure the pathway is clear and inviting.
- Exterior Walls: Check for any signs of damp, peeling paint, or overgrown foliage. A tidy exterior shows pride of ownership.
- Parking: If your property comes with a driveway, ensure it’s clear. You may consider moving your car from the driveway or front of the property if it is likely to block the view of the house in any photographs.
Carefully Chosen Upgrades for Maximum Impact
While not always necessary, certain strategic upgrades can significantly boost your property’s appeal and, crucially, its rental value.
Modern Kitchens and Bathrooms: These are often the deciding factors for tenants. You don’t always need a complete overhaul. Sometimes, simply updating cupboard doors, worktops, and taps in the kitchen, or replacing an old shower screen and resealing in the bathroom, can make a huge difference. Ensure all surfaces and appliances are thoroughly cleaned.
Energy Efficiency: Tenants are increasingly mindful of energy costs. Investing in energy-efficient appliances (A-rated or higher), good insulation, and double glazing can be a strong selling point and lead to a higher rent. Highlight these features in your marketing!
Quality Flooring: While carpets can be cosy, hard-wearing laminate, engineered wood, or vinyl flooring in high-traffic areas like living rooms and hallways is often preferred by tenants for its durability and ease of cleaning.
Connectivity: In today’s digital age, reliable internet access is non-negotiable. Mentioning strong broadband availability or even having a fibre connection installed can be a major plus.
Pricing Your Property Competitively
Setting the right rental price is a delicate balance. Price it too high, and you risk long void periods; price it too low, and you’re missing out on potential income.
- Market Research: Look at comparable properties in Huddersfield – what are they renting for? What features do they offer?
- Property Condition: Factor in the condition and amenities of your own property. Have you invested in those strategic upgrades?
- Local Expertise: This is where a local property expert truly comes into their own. At Martin & Co Huddersfield, we have an unparalleled understanding of the local market, allowing us to advise you on the optimal rental price that attracts tenants quickly and maximises your return..Want to know how much rent your Huddersfield property could achieve? Book a free property valuation with our local experts.
Effective Marketing to Reach the Right Tenants
Even the most beautiful property needs to be seen by the right people. Effective marketing is key to minimising void periods and attracting desirable tenants.
- Professional Photography: High-quality photos are non-negotiable. They are the first visual interaction a prospective tenant will have with your property
- Compelling Property Description: Highlight the unique selling points of your Huddersfield property – its proximity to local amenities, transport links, the stunning Huddersfield village itself, and any unique features of the home.
- Targeted Marketing: Understanding your target audience – are you aiming for families, young professionals, or students? – can help tailor your marketing efforts.
Proactive Maintenance and Safety Compliance
Being a responsible landlord goes beyond just getting a tenant in; it involves ongoing commitment to maintenance and safety.
- Regular Inspections: Schedule periodic inspections to ensure the property is being looked after and to catch any potential issues before they escalate.
- Emergency Contacts: Provide tenants with clear emergency contact details for various issues (e.g., plumbing, electrical).
- Safety Certificates: Ensure all necessary safety certificates are up-to-date and legally compliant. This includes Gas Safety Certificates, Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR), and an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). With our robust approach to compliance and lettings legislation we ensure that your largest investment is in a safe pair of hands
- Deposit Protection: By law, tenants’ deposits must be protected in a government-approved scheme. We offer access to government approved tenancy deposit schemes to keep deposit money safe, and client money protection insurance to safeguard tenants’ rental money.
The Value of Professional Property Management
Navigating the complexities of the rental market, from legal obligations and tenant vetting to maintenance and financial management, can be time-consuming and challenging. This is where professional property management becomes an invaluable resource.
A professional property management team can offer landlords a significant advantage. They possess an unparalleled understanding of local market conditions, which is crucial for setting competitive rental prices and attracting desirable tenants. Their expertise extends to ensuring your property meets all legal and safety requirements, from Gas Safety Certificates to Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR) and Energy Performance Certificates (EPC). They can also provide guidance on presenting your property effectively to attract the right tenants, whether it’s through professional photography or advice on minor improvements. Additionally, property managers often handle the day-to-day management, such as rent collection and addressing maintenance issues promptly, which helps in maintaining a positive landlord-tenant relationship and minimising void periods.
Trust Martin & Co Huddersfield
Choosing the right letting agent can make all the difference to your experience as a landlord, and at Martin & Co Huddersfield, we believe our track record speaks for itself. But what does that really mean for you?
At Martin & Co Huddersfield you’ll get honest advice from local experts, proper customer service (remember that?) and great communication so you always know how your let is going. We’re deeply rooted in the local community, living and working alongside you. This gives us an unparalleled understanding of the Huddersfield rental markets, allowing us to provide insights and advice that only true local experts can. No one gains from over-promising, so don’t expect that from us. We’re straight-talking, honest, and always prioritise transparency in our dealings. Because that’s the least you should expect.
Let our expert team guide you through the process. Get in touch today, we’re here to help you make the very best of your property.
