Decorating a rental property is not the same as designing your own home. Decorating a rental property is done to make it more appealing to tenants. Personalizing the aesthetic appeal immediately excludes a portion of the prospective tenants. Whenever it pertains to decorating a rental property, less is most certainly more. Consider your property to be a blank canvas waiting for prospective tenants to call home.
The greater the degree of neutrality, the better. It is important to note that all personal belongings, ornaments, pictures, books, and other items, particularly those of monetary or sentimental value, should be removed from the premises before the tenancy begins. Some items may be boxed, sealed, and stored in the loft at the risk of the owner, however, make sure the tenant is aware.
All cupboards and shelf space should be considered clear for the Tenant’s personal use. it is important that the Tenants should feel comfortable in their temporary home, and that they are receiving value for their money.
Therefore, a well-presented and maintained property in good decorative order will go towards this, whilst also achieving a higher rental figure. Tenants are also more inclined to treat such a property with greater respect.
Below are some top landlords decorating ideas:
- Colour: Rental properties should be decorated in neutral colours; this also involves avoiding bold colour schemes that may turn potential tenants off. Furthermore, look for high-quality paints, which contain latex or acrylic and will help protect your walls and door frames from knocks, reducing the need for major repairs. If you own two or maybe more properties, it’s best to stick to a single paint colour and brand. No bucket of paint will ever go to waste this way. It’s much easier to retouch or freshen the decor between tenancies if you use a common paint.
- Wall Arts/ Paintings: Simple works of art, paintings, and ornaments can be used to decorate and improve the property. Painting and art make a home more human. Be prepared to remove them though if the tenant prefers.
- Flooring: When it comes to flooring, you must choose between purchasing high-quality flooring that will last longer and purchasing a lower-cost option that will need to be replaced a few years later. Living and dining rooms are ideal places for laminate flooring because food and drink spills are unavoidable, and laminate is significantly less inclined to stain than carpet. Invest in high-quality laminate; a long-lasting laminate is essential. In the bedroom, laminate flooring is an option; however, the carpet is more relaxed. Again, you must decide whether to purchase a high-quality carpet and have it professionally washed every year or so, tenants should do this at the end of the tenancy.
- Furnishing: It is entirely up to you, the landlord, whether the property is fully furnished, partially furnished, or unfurnished. Providing white goods is a good idea because it increases the likelihood of the property being rented. If you plan to furnish the property, it must be of high quality and match, as shabby furniture is ineffective. If your rental property looks fantastic and is of high quality, you will attract a greater calibre of prospective tenants from whom you can choose the best. Tenants who are dependable, responsible, and satisfied with their living situation seem to be more likely to remain. If you decide not to furnish the property, some tenants who bring their home furnishings and turn the rented property into their home are more inclined to stay longer.
- The Bathroom: Ventilation is crucial because effective windows and extractors can prevent condensation if left untreated can cause mould. Silicone around the bath/shower tray needs to be cleaned or replaced as required, to prevent water from escaping, which can lead to mould growth. An electric shower should be considered as this will still work if the boiler malfunctions. In terms of decorating, keep it neutral and simple. Choosing tiles or wet walls over paint is wise because it is simpler to maintain and significantly durable. While it may be pricier at first, the long-term perks will save you money on regular bathroom redecorating in the future and keep your property looking newer for longer.
- Light Fittings, Blind & Curtains: When it comes to light fittings, there are rules regarding kitchen and bathroom lights, the fittings shouldn’t be hanging in any form. Preferably be L.E.D. to save money and either flush with the ceiling or have the blub hidden so steam does not affect it. Keep the light fixtures, like the rest of the interiors, simple. Affordable yet stylish light fittings can be found in DIY stores, so you won’t have to spend a fortune to install them. Fittings like blinds and curtains should be simple and neutral. The same applies to shower curtains were appropriate. Shower curtains should be checked and changed if appropriate between tenancies. Always test any set of blinds before installing them to see how easy they are to function and clean.
- Storage Space: Everyone, whether a landlord or a tenant, would like a little more space to store their belongings. As the landlord, you can be creative with furniture to make the most of the available space. Wall shelves, ottoman beds, and footstools with storage compartments can provide tenants with additional space. The property will likely appear more desirable than similar properties in the area if you acquire a little more space with additional storage.
- The Garden: A property’s outdoor space can be a major selling point, but if a prospective tenant arrives to find an overgrown garden, they may decide against renting the space. Make sure your outdoor space is presentable before viewings. Flower beds should be weed-free, grass should be cut, and shrubs should be pruned. Once the tenant moves in, they will be responsible for the garden’s upkeep, but it is your responsibility to ensure it looks good when the property is listed on the lettings market. The same goes for any front-of-the-house outdoor space – give it a thorough clean before viewings to add that additional wow factor.
Remember, that the goal is to make sure it is clean, presentable, and most importantly to keep it simple. We are pleased to provide you with additional advice on decorating the property.