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It is not uncommon to hear tenants complaining about their landlord (or landlady). Most of the time, it is due to the lack of concern for the issues presented by people renting the property. Maintenance concerns are often brought up, and some residential landlords take their time addressing them. Another reason for dissatisfied tenants is the neglect of the entire property.
It is normal to expect that the surrounding area of the rental property where you live is well-maintained and cared for, and of course, fit for human habitation. Additionally, security is a priority among residents. An unsafe property can never attract the right renters. All these factors contribute to tenants discontinuing their lease and looking for a better place to live.
While it is true that many rogue landlords earn an unfavourable reputation, some know how to treat their tenants well and keep them happy and will make rent payments. The following landlord tips can help you become the ideal landperson with satisfied tenants who will stay with you long-term.
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Be responsive to their concerns
As earlier mentioned, tenants expect private landlords to respond to their concerns as soon as possible, even if you are using a letting agency as an intermediate. Often, these issues are all about maintenance and repairs. If something is amiss within a tenant’s home, it is best to find out what the problem is and address it soonest. It may also be worth having specialist landlord insurance so you can instantly resolve major issues and no risk withholding of rental payments. If any advance rent was paid into a deposit protection service, any dispute could jeopardise this.
The comfort and convenience of your tenants are a priority, and keeping them hanging while they wait on you to handle the problem can make them think twice about staying on your property or falling into rent arrears. Remember that maintaining a good relationship with your tenant is essential for your business. Should you be away, it is best to inform them. At the same time, make provisions for emergencies where they can get in touch with someone else during your absence.
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Make worthwhile upgrades
When tenants are happy in their surroundings, you can expect them to stay and hopefully look after the property. The people residing in the property appreciate a fresh coat of paint, a well-tended yard, and improvements on kerb appeal. While this is not usually part of any tenancy agreement, it will help you maintain responsible tenants and secure the rental income. And it goes without saying you should have an up to date gas safety certificate and regular boiler checks.
It would also be an excellent move to have commercial solar panels installed. They are eco-friendly, which most people today support. As a result, landlords and tenants save money on their electricity, and this factor adds value to the property.
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Assist tenants with adjusting to the new location
While this is something that tenants do not often expect, it is a nice gesture to provide assistance as they try to adjust to their new location. In addition, they may not be too familiar with the area and would appreciate a little help with directions to the grocery, drug stores, and other essential establishments they may want to find. All in all, it is a little extra that new tenants appreciate.
While it is no easy task to be a landlord, it does not have to be as overwhelming as you expect if you follow our advice. When you take good care of your property and treat your tenants with respect, you can ensure that you will have good renters residing in your property who pay the rent on time. You might even attract more prospective tenants.
Landlording is a lucrative business, especially if you stay focused on maintaining your property and keeping your tenants happy. So if you are new landlords with a buy to let property, make sure you read our tips to ensure you have good tenants to ensure that rental yield.
