Hi, I’m a real estate agent and I’ve lived in Accrington all my life. Over the years, I’ve learned that getting a property ready for new renters is not as easy as it seems. Landlords need to make sure that the property is clean, safe, and follows all rules and regulations. Doing this the right way can help you find great tenants who will stay longer, which means a steady rental income. That’s why I put together this easy-to-follow guide, ‘Preparing the Accrington Property for Tenants – Handy Tips for Landlords’, to help you through this process.

The first step to getting your rental property ready is to see what needs to be fixed or replaced, even before your current tenant moves out. Hire a professional to do this as they might spot things you miss. This can also give you an idea of how long it will take to get everything fixed up and ready for new tenants.

Once your property is empty, get it cleaned thoroughly. While some landlords try to do this themselves, hiring professionals can save you time and give better results. They know how to tackle tricky stains or damages and have special equipment to get your property spotless. Not only does this make the property look nice, it also means your new tenants will be moving into a healthy environment.

Next, think about any upgrades or improvements you want to make. Simple changes like a new coat of paint, replacing the carpet, or getting new appliances can make your property more attractive and help you charge higher rent. This also applies to any outdoor areas: keep gardens or patios neat and tidy. Make sure you follow local housing rules and get the necessary permissions before starting any work.

Another crucial aspect is safety. Make sure that your property meets all safety rules and regulations. This includes having all the needed documents such as an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), Gas Safety Record, Energy Performance Certificate, and any other certifications your property might require.

Finally, make sure that your property has the right insurance for having tenants and that you’ve followed all the rules before renting it out. Always check the local Accrington laws to make sure you’re on the right side of the law.

To sum up, preparing a rental property for new tenants takes careful planning and lots of work, including deep cleaning, potential upgrades, safety checks, and following laws. The steps in this guide are based on many years of experience, and provide a clear path to creating an attractive, safe, and legal rental property in Accrington. While it may take some time and money at first, it will boost your property’s value, attract good tenants, and protect you from legal troubles, giving you peace of mind in the long term.