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Creating a Welcoming Rental Home: Small Touches That Make a Big Difference

Creating a Welcoming Rental Home

When it comes to letting your property in Peterborough, it’s not just location and layout that tenants look for. How a place feels when they walk through the door can be the deciding factor between a quick let and a void period. As a landlord, if you want higher rents and quality tenants who stick around, creating a welcoming rental home is well worth the effort.

At PTL Lettings, your local property management company in Peterborough, we know what renters respond to and small touches can really help your property stand out.

Why First Impressions Matter

The first viewing is your chance to impress. Tenants will be picturing their life in the property from the moment they step in. Creating a welcoming rental home sends the message that you care about their comfort, which often leads to better care of your property in return.

Here’s what we recommend:

1. Cleanliness is Non-Negotiable

Before anything else, make sure the place is spotless and well-maintained. This seems obvious, but you’d be surprised how often it’s overlooked. Consider a professional clean between tenancies – it’s money well spent.

  • Skirting boards, light switches, and windows should all be cleaned.
  • Kitchens and bathrooms must be sparkling.
  • Remove cobwebs and dust from ceilings and corners.

2. Fresh Paint, Neutral Tones

A fresh coat of paint in neutral shades like soft grey, beige or warm white can instantly lift a property when creating a welcoming rental home. Avoid bold feature walls – what you see as stylish, someone else might see as dated.

  • Touch up scuffs and marks between lets.
  • Stick to one or two tones throughout for a cohesive look.

3. Light and Bright Spaces

A light-filled room feels bigger and more inviting. If your property doesn’t get much natural light, here’s how to boost brightness:

  • Use light curtains or blinds that don’t block the windows.
  • Add mirrors to reflect light.
  • Consider updating light fittings or bulbs to warm LED.

4. Kerb Appeal

If you’re letting a house, don’t forget the front garden or entrance:

  • Trim hedges and mow the lawn.
  • Clean the front door and maybe give it a lick of paint.
  • A new doormat and house number can work wonders.

5. Add a Few Homely Touches

While you don’t want to overcrowd the space, if you’re letting your property furnished, some tasteful finishing touches when creating a welcoming rental home can help tenants connect emotionally with the property.

  • Soft furnishings like cushions or a throw on the sofa.
  • A stylish lamp or a framed mirror in the hallway.
  • A vase of flowers or a bowl of fruit for viewings.

6. Storage is Always a Winner

Make sure tenants can picture themselves storing their belongings easily:

  • Built-in wardrobes are a big selling point.
  • Hooks in the hallway or utility space.
  • If there’s a loft or shed, make sure it’s accessible and clean.

7. Garden or Outdoor Space

Even a tiny patio or balcony is a huge plus nowadays. If you have outdoor space:

  • Keep it tidy and easy to maintain.
  • Add a couple of chairs and a table if space allows.
  • Consider low-maintenance planting or artificial grass.

Why It Pays Off

These simple upgrades not only help your property rent faster but can also justify a higher monthly rent. Tenants are willing to pay more for somewhere that feels looked after and ready to move into.

In our experience at PTL Lettings, landlords who take time in creating a welcoming rental home often get longer tenancies and fewer maintenance issues – because tenants feel invested in a home that’s been treated with care.

Need Help Getting Your Property Ready?

As a trusted letting and property management agent in Peterborough, PTL Lettings offers a hands-on, hassle-free service to help you attract the best tenants. From preparing your listing to managing viewings and paperwork, we make the whole process simple.

Get in touch today on 01733 555183 or email us at info@ptl-lettings.co.uk to see how we can help.

In the meantime, we’ve answered some of your common questions about creating a welcoming rental home.

FAQs

How can I make my rental feel more homely without spending a fortune?

Focus on cleanliness, fresh paint, and small decor touches. It doesn’t need to be expensive – just thoughtful.

Should I furnish my rental property?

That depends on your target market. Young professionals often prefer part-furnished homes, while families tend to bring their own furniture.

Does a tidy garden really matter for letting?

Yes! Even a tiny outdoor space can be a big selling point. Keep it neat and show tenants what it could look like.

Will these tips help me charge more rent?

Generally, yes. Properties that feel well looked after and ready to move into attract better tenants who are happy to pay a bit more.

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Preparing Your Rental Property for the New Year Market

Preparing your Property for the New Year Market

During the festive season, landlords in Peterborough have the perfect opportunity to prepare their properties for the New Year rental market. January is a peak time for lettings, with tenants actively searching for their next home. Making small but impactful improvements during the Christmas holidays can help your property stand out. At PTL Lettings, we’re here to share some practical tips to help you attract tenants and secure a successful let.

Why January is Key for Landlords

January is a time of new beginnings, with many people relocating for work, education, or personal reasons. As a landlord, being prepared for this surge of activity can make all the difference. Prospective tenants prioritise properties that are clean, well-maintained, and appealing. Whether you’re working with a letting agent in Peterborough or managing the property yourself, preparing your rental property can help reduce void periods and maximise your rental income.

Simple Improvements to Make Over the Christmas Holidays

1. Refresh the Décor

A fresh coat of paint can work wonders in preparing your rental property and making it feel bright and inviting. Stick with neutral colours like whites, greys, or creams to appeal to a wide range of tenants. Remember that neutral tones make rooms look larger, cleaner and make it easier for tenants to visualise as their home.

2. Deep Clean Every Corner

Thorough cleaning is essential to create a welcoming atmosphere. Pay attention to areas that often get overlooked, such as skirting boards, behind appliances, and inside cupboards. Don’t forget carpets and upholstery too, and hire a professional cleaning service if necessary. Rental properties that are spotless leave a lasting impression on potential tenants.

3. Upgrade Energy Efficiency

With tenants increasingly prioritising energy-efficient homes, making improvements such as adding draught excluders, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, or installing extra insulation can make your rental property in Peterborough more appealing. Not only do these upgrades reduce utility bills for tenants, but they can also add value to your property and demonstrate your commitment to sustainability.

4. Improve Kerb Appeal

First impressions count! When preparing your rental property, tidy up outside areas by clearing gutters, pressure-washing pathways, and adding potted plants or a new doormat. If you have a garden, make sure it’s neat and inviting – trim bushes, rake up leaves, and remove any clutter.

5. Check for Repairs

Address any maintenance issues that could put tenants off. Leaky taps, squeaky doors, or peeling wallpaper might seem like small issues but can leave a negative impression. A hands-on approach to repairs shows that you’re a responsible landlord.

Renting out your property in winter? Considerations for landlords.

Preparing Your Rental Property for Viewings

1. Declutter and Depersonalise

If your rental property is being let furnished, remove personal or overly bold decorative items. Minimalism helps tenants visualise themselves living in the property. Store any unnecessary items to make rooms feel more spacious.

2. Highlight Key Features

Identify what makes your property unique. Whether it’s a large kitchen, a cosy fireplace, or a balcony with a view, make sure these features are showcased in your property listing and highlighted during viewings.

Partner with a Trusted Letting Agent

Working with a letting agent in Peterborough ensures your property gets maximum exposure in the local market.

At PTL Lettings, we’re experts in matching landlords with the right tenants. Our team also offers comprehensive property management services in Peterborough, giving you complete peace of mind.

The Benefits of Being Prepared

Taking the time to improve your rental property in Peterborough over the Christmas holidays will help you attract tenants but could also justify a higher rent. Well-maintained properties also tend to attract responsible tenants, reducing the likelihood of late payments or disputes.

Are you preparing your rental property for the New Year market? Contact PTL Lettings today for expert advice and support. Call us on 01733 555183 or email info@ptl-lettings.co.uk.

Whether you’re looking to market a property to let in Peterborough or need help from an experienced and trusted property management company, we’re here to help.

In the meantime, we’ve answered some of your common questions about preparing your rental property for the New Year market.

Frequently Asked Questions About Preparing Your Rental Property

What are the most cost-effective improvements I can make?

Fresh paint, deep cleaning, and updating small fixtures are affordable ways to boost your rental property’s appeal.

Why is January such a busy time for the rental market?

Many people relocate in January due to work or personal reasons, making it one of the busiest months for lettings.

Should I furnish my rental property?

This depends on your target market. Students and young professionals often prefer furnished properties, while families may prefer unfurnished homes.

What are the benefits of working with a letting agent?

Letting agents help you find reliable tenants, manage paperwork, and handle day-to-day issues, saving you time and stress.

Can I increase the rent if I’ve improved the property?

Yes, making improvements can justify a rent increase, but ensure the new price aligns with market rates in Peterborough.