Landlords these are the top five priorities London tenants want from your rental property

We’ve just won The British Property Award for Best Letting Agent in Richmond for 2023. Its the third year we’ve won. It has got us thinking about what makes us different as a lettings agent. The private rented sector has developed and changed significantly in recent years but reliable service and working with excellent landlords are two things we’ve managed to get right. As available property continues to be constrained it’s not a time for complacency for Landlords, and it’s more important than ever that you do everything in your power to entice prospective tenants.

While priorities might change dependant on whether you are renting to short or long-term tenants, here at Parkgate Estates we’ve compiled some of the top factors that tenants will consider when searching for a rental property in Richmond, Putney and the surrounding South London areas.

Is the property clean and well looked after?

This goes without saying, but tenants will be looking for a clean and tidy home that’s in a good state of repair.

Long-term tenants may also consider the age of the property, as an older building could have more problems than a newer build. If you have an older property, it’s worth taking the time out to identify any potential issues and getting them fixed before the start of the tenancy.

Is the property in a good location?

Whether they are renting or buying, the location of a property is likely to be a key factor for most people. However, different types of tenants will have different priorities when it comes to location. As a landlord, you will want to consider your target demographic and what will be most important to them, listing the benefits that your property has to offer.

For example, if your rental property is in Richmond – which is in close proximity to Kingston University – you could focus on attracting student tenants by pointing out the nightlife and proximity to the campuses.

If you’re renting to families, however, highlight the local schools, shops and transport links in suburban areas such as Mortlake. It’s also worth thinking about the safety of the area you’ll be renting in when deciding which demographic to target.

Is the property safe enough?

Speaking of safety, there are some legal obligations that landlords have to meet in order to ensure a tenant’s well-being. Many tenants will consider how safe the rental property is closely, and with an increasing amount of legislation being placed on the lettings industry, landlords must ensure they have covered the following:

• smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
• electrical safety checks
• minimum energy efficiency standards

There are also small, cost-effective ways to make your rental property safe for all tenant types.

Does the property allow pets?

With people starting to rent for longer, they are more likely to want some home comforts in their rental property, and this may include keeping pets

Of course, allowing pets is completely up to the landlord, and many are hesitant to do so for fear of carpets, soft furnishings and furniture being damaged.

However, there are ways to mitigate the risk of potential damage by adding a pet surcharge, and most landlord insurance policies will also include pet damage as standard.

If you take the right steps to implement a pet-friendly policy, you can broaden your pool of prospective tenants, making your property more attractive.

Is the landlord friendly and reliable?

Even if you have all of the other factors of the property covered, tenants could still hesitate on choosing your rental property if they cannot gauge how you are as a landlord.

Tenants will be looking for a friendly landlord who they can feel confident will respond to requests or enquiries promptly and professionally. In doing so, tenants will feel more appreciated and cared for. By being courteous, flexible and transparent, you’re far more likely to hold onto your tenants for the long-term.

What’s more, many renters will prefer the rental property to be fully managed by a local reputable letting agency. This is because it gives them peace of mind that there is a team of professionals managing their tenancy who will be readily available to help in the event that they have a problem or query. Working with a letting agent can help you to manage your property effectively, while also allowing you to keep your tenants happy and satisfied.

For more information on letting your property in Richmond, Sheen, Mortlake and Putney, please get in touch with us on 020 8940 2991.

Also, if you would like to know how much your rental property could be worth on the current market, you can request a free and instant online lettings valuation.

Get on the market with Parkgate

For more information about selling your property in Richmond, Twickenham, Sheen, Mortlake and Putney, please get in touch with our multi award-winning team at Parkgate Estates on 0208 940 2991.

Get an instant online property valuation

Find out how much your home could be worth in the current marketplace by using our free and instant online valuation.

Moving to Richmond?

Parkgate Estates are a leading independent award-winning estate agent, covering Richmond, Putney, Twickenham, Sheen and Mortlake. The Parkgate team can help you find the ideal property to buy or let. We all know the area really well and can provide a comprehensive overview for you.

Talk to a member of the Parkgate team today and register with us: 020 8940 2991.

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