For any landlord, the property they rent out to tenants is more than just a house or a flat; it’s an investment and a statement. An investment that hopefully reaps rewards over the long term, and a statement that shows tenants you have a property they are pleased to call home. It’s perhaps making this statement that leads to the investment being successful. If you can provide tenants with a well-furnished, attractive property, it won’t be too difficult to find new occupants once the current tenancy expires.
Well-chosen interiors play a big part in the success of a rental property. Whilst kerb appeal is widely seen as a key factor in attracting viewers, it’s often what is inside that seals the deal. By fusing style with durability, it becomes easy for a landlord to own an attractive property that requires minimal upkeep.
The ultimate challenge is finding this balance. Style, longevity and budget don’t always go hand in hand, but it is possible. In this blog, we see how landlords can provide tenants with a perfect balance of style and durability that benefits both parties without vast expense on either side.
Flooring
Flooring for a buy-to-let property can be one of the biggest decisions. Choosing between carpet, hardwood, luxury vinyl tiles, or laminate is only part of your deliberation. You’ve then got to factor in Herringbone, Chevron or Parquet flooring patterns (among the many others!) to get the look you think will appeal to potential tenants.
Before settling on the patterns, it might be best to consider the type of look you want, the tenants you might have and how much work you might have to put in if any problems arise.
Consider the footfall the property may encounter and whether scratch and stain-resistant flooring is essential or just a bonus. Luxury vinyl tiles are popular in buy-to-let properties. Affordable, available in an array of styles, easy to clean, and resistant to both stains and scratches. What’s more, with the tiles installed individually, if there are any issues, just remove one and replace it, rather than having to remove entire portions of the flooring. Carpet, on the other hand, provides a good level of insulation, but is prone to showing its age and can be difficult to restore if it gets stained or damaged.
Aim for neutral colours to show fewer marks, appeal to a wider range of tenants and avoid the potential for clashing with any furnishings the tenants bring with them!
Furniture
One of the biggest expenses of a landlord will be any furniture. Even with a part-furnished property, there will be some elements of the furnishings provided by the landlord that could influence the decision of any potential tenants. A property should feel inviting, not imposing, nor cheap and neglected. Too many high-end items may make some tenants feel overly cautious about how they live in the property. A complete lack of care and attention regarding the furnishings could push tenants away, as they don’t feel comfortable in the home.
Look for neutral colours, just like with the flooring. This way it appeals to most tastes and doesn’t become too much of a challenge on the eyes! Greys, creams and earthy tones provide versatility and are more likely to pair with anything the tenant brings.
Some landlords look at flat-pack furniture as a quick and easy way to furnish a rental property. They would be right, but it doesn’t stand to keep the tenants happy, or have them renew a contract. Look for durable, sturdy tables, chairs, shelving and beds. These items are among the core items you can win over new tenants with, and if you buy cheap, you’ll be buying at least twice!
It’s also worth considering the functionality of the furniture. Some items have multiple uses. Sofa beds for smaller bedrooms, ottomans with storage or fold-out dining tables can not only be space-saving but serve multiple purposes, removing the need to spend additionally on items you think the property may need, but it can really do without.
By focusing on practicality and style, you’ll create a space that feels homely, without imposing your own character on it too much.
Kitchens & bathrooms: High footfall leads to high impact
The kitchen and bathroom(s) are likely to experience the most wear and tear. Functionality and cleanliness are essential in both, and showcasing these to tenants is a clear winner.
Look for appliances that are energy efficient (your tenants will thank you for the reduced energy bills!) and reliable. Consider what items are luxuries and what are essential. A high-end coffee machine may look the part, but will you trust the tenants to clean it to the highest standard or even use it that much?
When it comes to surfaces, their durability and low-maintenance nature must be top of any wishlist. Bacteria can thrive on kitchen and bathroom surfaces, especially those that are hard to clean or porous. Find surfaces that can be cleaned quickly, match the style of the property and don’t cost a fortune. Quartz-effect laminates can pull this off.
For taps, door handles and tiling, simple remains the best option. These areas are your touch and splash points throughout the kitchen and bathroom, so it’s easy for them to become home to germs. Stainless steel handles and chrome taps, in modern yet simple designs, connect longevity with style.
Bathrooms and kitchens are areas that can influence any tenants. The slightest concern over hygiene could see people leave before they’ve even seen the rest of the property.
Lighting and décor
Even if you have secured a great variety of furniture that appeals to a broad range of tenants, the property won’t market itself very well if it feels dull and drab. The lighting and the walls can make a huge difference and, in some aspects, make the rooms feel bigger than they really are.
Lighting
Good lighting makes rooms appear bigger, and as a result, more welcoming. Choose LED bulbs for their long-lasting and energy-efficient capabilities. Place them well to ensure the room isn’t too bright but rather offers a feeling of warmth.
Walls
As touched upon already, neutral colours can be a landlord’s best friend. White or light grey walls create a blank canvas that allows tenants to hang pictures or other items without them looking out of place.
Décor
Minimal is the maximum! A few mirrors, the occasional framed print and that may be all you need. It finishes off the furnishing without making anything too imposing and still allows tenants to add a little personalisation too.
Final word
Landlords should understand that furnishing a property with just the basics won’t cut it. Tenants expect, and deserve more. By creating an attractive, durable living space, those who rent it are more inclined to renew their contract, and if they don’t, the great condition it is in should make it appealing to plenty of other keen renters.
From flooring to furniture and from lighting to décor, each element should be given appropriate consideration. That way, the property investment can pay off much faster.
