Firstly, remember that a positive first impression is the difference between securing a good tenant or the property remaining vacant. If you spend a small amount of time prior to marketing your property to ensure that it is tidy and well presented, you are well on the path to securing good and responsible tenants who will want to move into your property.
Property investors need to budget and create a sinking fund to cover expenses that will occur during the lifetime of their property. On average an investment property will need to be updated every 4 to 6 years. Things to budget for over this timeframe include:
- Replacement of hot water system
- Replacement of white goods (stove, dishwasher etc.)
- Internal and external painting
- Replacement of floor and window coverings
It should also be noted that expenses incurred in making your property attractive to tenants are tax deductible.
It is important to remember that a property that is well presented will attract good tenants who will care for the property and will often be long term occupiers, which over time reduces vacancy periods and lost rental income.