5 Ways to Attract the Best Renters

Renting out the home you’ve put so much time, money, and energy into can be a frightening experience. You want to know that you’re getting the best possible renters who will take excellent care of your home, just like you while you lived there. The right renters will help you protect your investment and also enjoy some profits.

Here are five ways to attract renters who will care for your home:

1. Know your target tenant.

Before you start fixing the house or marketing it, know who you want to have as your model tenant. Define your model tenant, and determine where this individual will be looking for a home and what they need from the property. Then, use that information to advertise your property effectively while adding features that the tenant wants to see in the home.

2. Add items to make the home more appealing.

When preparing a rental home for tenants, try to avoid putting too much money into the home or completely neglecting it. To attract potential buyers, consider adding a few quality outdoor touches. One way to enhance your home and lure the best possible renters is to invest in an outdoor living space. While adding a porch or patio may be too costly, you can add a picnic table or comfortable seating nook without spending a fortune.

3. Screen interested tenants.

Plan to screen your tenants before accepting them, and make sure all potential tenants know you will be doing this. Matthew David from the REI Club warns against simply going with his “gut feeling,” He says, “Check out their past landlords from the last two to five years. Look into their employment history, and do any additional due diligence steps you think may help, including a credit check, if need be.”

Let tenants know that you will be checking these references. A good tenant will be more than willing to submit to these checks and will pass with flying colors. Consider charging an application fee, between $20 and $30, to help cover the cost of the background and credit checks and filter out the less serious applicants.

 4. Advertise wisely.

When advertising your property, be wise. First, choose the advertising locations that will draw the type of tenant you want. In addition to community notice boards and print publications, make sure you advertise online, as out-of-town renters will be using the internet to find a new home. Use a headline that capitalizes on the home’s benefits, such as a location near a park, dining options, or the home’s neighborhood.

5. Clean the Home

Before taking pictures of the home to advertise it, clean it and paint it, if needed. Having a spotless home will help enhance the home’s attractiveness, making it stand out to potential renters. Consider taking photos before you move your belongings out, or leave some basic pieces of furniture to show how the space is best used.

Finding exceptional renters will make your investment a success. Take the time to screen renters carefully, make your home as appealing as possible, and advertise in the right places. With these tips, you will be able to find the ideal renter for your home as you move on to your next location.

About the author:

Jessica Kyriakos is Brand Manager of Superior Site Amenities. For 15 years she has worked in the site furnishing industry. The company provides furniture for your outdoor space, including benches, tables, grills, and more.