Preparing your Chelmsford property for a new tenant

Before your rental property goes onto the market, it’s worth taking a step back and looking at it through a tenant’s eyes.

Does it feel clean, comfortable and well cared for? Are there little jobs you’ve been meaning to finish? Would someone viewing it be able to picture themselves living there?

Getting the preparation right can help your property make a stronger first impression and give the tenancy a better start.

Tackle the small jobs first

A dripping tap, loose cupboard handle or tired sealant might seem minor, but several small issues can leave a viewer wondering how well the property has been maintained.

Walk through each room and make a list of anything that needs attention. Check doors, windows, taps, lighting and any appliances included with the tenancy.

It’s also a good opportunity to arrange a review of the relevant safety checks and paperwork before marketing begins.

Aim for fresh and easy to maintain

You don’t necessarily need a complete makeover between tenancies. Sometimes a thorough clean, touching up paintwork and replacing worn items will make a noticeable difference.

Where you do need to redecorate, simple colours and durable finishes can make future upkeep easier. Think about how the property will stand up to everyday use, as well as how it photographs.

Remember the outside

The entrance sets the tone before a tenant steps through the door.

Clear the path, tidy any outdoor space and make sure the front door looks presentable. If there’s a garden, hand it over in a manageable condition with clear expectations about its upkeep.

Prepare for the handover

A detailed inventory and condition record help everyone understand how the property looked at the start of the tenancy.

Useful information about heating, appliances, bins and reporting maintenance can also help a new tenant settle in.

Thinking about letting your property in Chelmsford or the surrounding areas? Get in touch with me and let’s talk through what needs to happen before it goes onto the market.