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The Do's and Don'ts of Rental Property Showings

The Do’s and Don’ts of Rental Property Showings

  |     |   Property Management
Renting a property can be an intimidating process, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re a landlord or a property manager, understanding the do’s and don’ts of rental property showings can make it a much smoother experience. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with the ultimate tips for making sure your rental property showings are a success.

DO: Make sure the property is clean

It's essential to make sure your rental property is clean before any potential tenants arrive for a showing. Cleanliness can create a good impression and increase the chances of renting the property for the price you are asking. Be sure to dust, vacuum, mop, and scrub bathrooms and kitchens in order to make the property sparkle. Pay special attention to high-traffic areas such as the entryway, living room, and kitchen. If necessary, hire a professional cleaner to help you out. For example, if you have carpets that need deep cleaning, hire an experienced carpet cleaning service to get the job done right.

DO: De-personalize the space

When you’re preparing a rental property for showings, one of the most important tasks is to depersonalize the space. This means removing any evidence of the previous tenants or any personal items that could leave a lasting impression on potential tenants. It’s important to do this before showing the apartment in order to give potential tenants an objective and neutral experience when viewing the space.
Depersonalizing a rental property can help attract more tenants as they won’t be distracted by any personal belongings left behind by the previous tenant. It also gives potential tenants the opportunity to envision themselves living in the space, which can help them make a quicker decision on whether or not they want to rent the property.

3 Ways to Depersonalize:

 

  1. Remove all personal belongings This includes photos, souvenirs, furniture, and any other personal items that could be associated with the previous tenant.
  2. Deep clean the space – This includes vacuuming, dusting, and scrubbing to get rid of any remaining debris from the previous tenant.
  3. Make it feel neutral – Use neutral colors and decor to make the space feel welcoming and inviting to potential tenants. Avoid overly bright colors or anything that could be too overwhelming.

DO: Stage the property

Staging a rental property can make all the difference when trying to attract potential tenants. When done correctly, it can help create a sense of comfort and a home-like atmosphere. The goal is to make the space inviting and appealing to those who come in for showings.

Why you should stage your rental property:

Staging a rental property will not only help potential tenants envision themselves living in the space, but it can also show off the best aspects of the property. It also sets the right tone and mood that tenants can expect if they choose to rent. By giving the property a unique and inviting feel, it will stand out from other options and give you an edge over your competition.

How to Stage a Rental Property:

When staging a rental property, it’s important to keep things simple and neutral. Stick to basic furniture and neutral colors. Avoid bold patterns and bright colors, as they can be distracting. You should also make sure the property is clean and tidy with no mess or clutter visible. Finally, add some personal touches with throw pillows, art pieces, and plants. These subtle touches will help create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

DON'T: Overwhelm potential tenants with too much information

When showing a rental property, it is important to provide potential tenants with enough information to make an informed decision. At the same time, you don't want to overwhelm them with too much information. Having a knowledgeable property manager or representative present for the showing is a great way to provide potential tenants with the answers to their questions without overwhelming them.

Additionally, it's helpful to provide prospective tenants with information on the local area. Pointing out nearby schools, restaurants, shopping, and transportation options can be very attractive to renters. It also shows that you have done your research and that you understand the local market.
Finally, be sure to highlight the amenities of your property. Anything that sets it apart from other rentals should be highlighted. This could include a washer and dryer, a backyard, or even pet-friendly policies. Showing potential tenants why your property stands out can be a great selling point.

By providing just enough information and highlighting the features of your rental property, you can make sure that potential tenants have all the details they need without overwhelming them with too much information.
 

DON'T: Be late

Being late to a rental property showing is never a good look, and can leave potential tenants with a negative impression of your property. Being on time is essential for making sure the prospective tenants feel respected, and it also shows that you are professional and reliable. If you find yourself running late, be sure to contact the potential tenants ahead of time to inform them of the situation and apologize for any inconvenience. Not only does this help maintain their respect, but it also allows them to plan accordingly and avoid any last- minute scheduling conflicts. Additionally, try to give yourself plenty of time to get to the property so that you aren't rushed when you arrive. By taking the time to plan ahead and prioritize punctuality, you'll make sure your rental property showings go smoothly.

DON'T: Skip the follow-up

When it comes to renting out a property, following up with potential tenants is just as important as showing them the property in the first place. Following up with potential tenants allows you to create a personal connection and makes sure that no stone is left unturned.

First, make sure to respond quickly to inquiries about the rental. People will often reach out through email or over the phone and they expect a response within a few hours or even minutes. Remember, if they can’t get in contact with you, they may move on and look elsewhere.

Second, after meeting with the prospective tenants, send them a friendly reminder about the property and their interest in it. This is also a great opportunity to address any lingering questions or doubts they might have. If you have an upcoming open house or additional showings, make sure to inform them of that as well.

Finally, make sure to follow up with each tenant after the showing. Ask them how they felt about the property and if they have any further questions or concerns. Even if they don’t end up taking the rental, a polite follow-up will make them remember you and could lead to referrals in the future.

At the end of the day, skipping the follow-up is a huge mistake when renting out a property. Take the time to create a personal connection with your tenants and stay on top of their inquiries. Doing so will not only make your job easier but will ensure that no tenant is left behind!

Summary

Showings are an essential part of finding the right tenant for your rental property. To ensure success, make sure the property is clean, de-personalized, and staged before any potential tenants come to view it. Don't overwhelm potential tenants with too much information and be sure to stay on time.

Following up with prospective tenants after the showing is also important. With these do's and don'ts of rental property showings, you'll be able to maximize your chances of finding the perfect tenant for your rental property.

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