As a landlord, you want the right tenants in your property, and you don’t want any void periods without receiving rent. The UK lettings market offers many potentially lucrative opportunities. However, it’s also becoming more imperative to follow processes in order to achieve success. One crucial consideration is the best way to find tenants for your rental property.
Make sure your property is attractive
If your property is clean, in good order, and presentable, then it will attract good tenants. Decorating it with neutral colours, installing good appliances, or doing anything that improves the energy efficiency of the property could lead to higher rents.
Check your property is compliant
Electrical inspections, gas safety certificates, and energy performance certificates (EPC) all help prove that your property is compliant. This is a crucial step in helping to prevent you from being liable for any accidents or potential prosecution.
Explore the full potential of your property
All properties offer potential. Whether it's enhancing the bathroom or kitchen or creating outdoor spaces, it's important to fully explore the potential of your property. Good outdoor spaces are in high demand, especially those that can be used all year round.
Carry out background, right to rent and credit checks
It’s in your interests as a landlord and a legal requirement to conduct background checks that are compliant and not discriminatory. You want to place reliable tenants in your property but do so in a way that does not create problems. It’s imperative to check that any prospective tenants are over the age of 18 and have the right to live in the UK before agreeing on a tenancy. Tenant referencing is also vital; for tenants who have never rented before, simply ask for a character reference. This is a useful way of gaining access to a tenant’s previous history when it comes to paying debts. Anything you can do to get an insight into how reliable a tenant is also an opportunity for the tenant to prove their suitability.
Market your property well
The key to success is having excellent photographs, videos, and 3D virtual tours, along with an accompanying strategy that connects your property with excellent tenants. Your chosen estate agent will possess a comprehensively vetted database of potential tenants.
Verify the tenant’s income
Another useful way to assess a tenant’s ability to pay the rent is by verifying their income. Requesting copies of wage slips, bank statements, or a letter showing proof of employment are relatively simple ways of doing this.
Know your market
Knowing your market helps you target the right tenants. Once you know who you are targeting, you can prepare your property appropriately. Your property won't remain vacant if you cater to the needs of potential tenants.
Contact us
Are you in search of a tenant or another property? Contact your local Guild Member today.
