When you’re ready to prepare your rent-to-build home for new tenants, you should know what’s most important. There are plenty of things you want to do to make the property rent-ready. It can even be helpful to have a checklist.
Whether you’re preparing the property for the first time or for another set of tenants, you should know what needs to be done. Let’s look at some of the most important things to do before letting renters move in.
Check Things Thoroughly
You want to do a walkthrough of the property inside and outside. This is especially important if the property has been rented before. Often, old tenants will leave garbage behind or may have damaged something that needs to be repaired. Make a note of any repairs needed or anything that isn’t working.
Even if it’s the first time you are renting the property, you should do an inspection. you want to make sure everything is in tip-top shape and ready for new tenants. Look at all of the following:
- HVAC system
- Foundation
- Windows and doors
- flooring
- Attic and insulation
- Plumbing
- Electrical
- Ceilings and walls
- Roof
Turn on all the switches and appliances to make sure they work, as well.
Clean Everything
You can likely hire professionals to take care of the cleaning, but you want to do a deep cleaning. If there were pets in the home, make sure you get cleaners that can get rid of the smell and all the hair. The last thing you need is new tenants with pet allergies moving in without a proper cleaning done.
Of course, you want to make sure to have the carpets and floors professionally cleaned, too. There is nothing worse than moving into a home with dirty carpets or an odor. Clean the floors to ensure your property is ready for renters.
Replace What Needs to be Replaced
If the carpet is worn out, replace it. When an appliance isn’t working properly, replace it. Even litter things like the batteries in the smoke detectors should be replaced.
It’s also smart to replace the furnace filter and you might want to replace the locks on the doors. Of course, anything that is broken will also need to be replaced.
Paint
When old tenants move out and new ones come in, you should paint. A fresh coat of paint makes everything feel newer and fresher for the new tenants. Even consider painting the mailbox post or the trim outside, if it could use a touch-up.
Have the HVAC Serviced
When tenants move out, you should have the HVAC system services before new ones move in. This can help to ensure it’s working properly and can prevent a bigger repair in the future.
When preparing a rent-to-build home for renters, you might not have to do any of the work. With a good property manager, you can relax and let them take care of everything. They can schedule any professional services needed, do the walkthrough, and make sure your rent-to-build home is ready for the next tenants.