How to increase the rental value of your property portfolio

Property maintenance plays an important part in the value of a property. Not only for resale, but for rental too. Our latest blog highlights the areas landlords and property management companies need to focus on in order to maintain and increase the rental value of a property portfolio.

First impressions count
In our previous blog we discussed the importance of first impressions when it comes to rental properties. Click here to read our blog on improving the kerb appeal of your properties. Helping to ensure prospective tenants aren’t put off before they even step inside.

Make sure appliances are up to date
Higher standards of fixtures and fittings will naturally command higher rental values. Older appliances such as fridges or washing machines that aren’t quite functioning as they should (or aren’t energy efficient) can put prospective tenants off. When managing a property portfolio consider the type of tenant each individual property and area will attract. I.e. if the property is a one bedroom flat suited to young tenants they are likely to pay slightly more to rent a property with a washer/dryer included rather than having to purchase their own appliances.

Tackle outdated and worn areas
Outdated wallpaper, scuffed skirting boards, worn or stained carpets and rickety kitchen cupboards will all impact on the rental value of your property. As rental tenants do not have the flexibility to update a property themselves something as basic as decor can put them off. As a landlord or property manager it’s in your best interest to ensure the properties in your portfolio are modernised, neutral and kept in a good condition. This will help increase the desirability of your properties, allowing you to charge more for the pleasure of living there. If you need property repair work, carpet cleaning or property refurbishment GMC are here to help.

Keep properties clean and gardens maintained
In addition to thorough end of tenancy cleans (more on this here) and well maintained gardens there are other ways property maintenance can help increase rental value. For example, additional property maintenance services can benefit both you and your tenants. By offering a regular property cleaning service as standard it helps you as the landlord and property manager avoid unexpected costs and maintenance issues. Additionally, this extra service means happier tenants giving them less reason to move out, and reducing the number of vacant properties you have at one time. Read more about the benefits of our regular cleaning services in this blog.

Making an uninhabited property habitable…
If your property portfolio contains currently uninhabited properties these are the additional areas which need to be considered before you put it back on the rental market.

• Legally required property tests and checks including gas safety (read more)
• Ensuring appliances are serviced and meet the current standards (e.g. if a boiler has been off ensure it is in good working order)
• Carry out a full property inspection to identify any issues such as minor repair works required or damp problems
• Make sure the property is secure and that locks meet regulations

GMC are here to help…
We’re experts in property maintenance, able to offer cleaning, refurbishment, repair and gardening services across the UK. To discuss further how GMC can help you with your properties just give us a call on 01903 721020, or email info@genmaint.co.uk