Preparing a rental property for sale can be a daunting task, especially if you've had tenants living in the property. Whether you're a seasoned landlord or a first-time seller, there are certain steps you can take to ensure your property is in top condition before putting it on the market.
In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know to prepare your home for sale after a tenant moves out.
Ensure Your Rental Agreement Requires the Tenant to Pay for Damages
One of the most important things you can do as a landlord is to ensure that your rental agreement includes language that holds the tenant responsible for any damages they may cause to the property.
This means that if the tenant causes any damage during their tenancy, they will be responsible for paying for the repairs.
Use a template to make sure all terms are included that way your tenant doesn’t get away with not paying for a broken window. This not only protects you as a landlord but also ensures that the property is in good condition when it's time to sell.
Complete a Walk Through When They Move Out
When your tenant moves out, it's essential to complete a thorough walk-through of the property to assess any damages that may have occurred during their tenancy.
This will give you a clear picture of the condition of the property and help you determine what repairs or updates may be necessary before putting it on the market. Be sure to document any damage you find with photos or video to use as evidence.
Check to See if Any Additional Damage is Covered by Insurance
Having homeowners insurance is vital when you own a home. Let’s say there’s damage that your tenant isn’t responsible for. Then the next step would be to go to your insurance.
For example, if a fire that your tenant didn’t start damages part of the property your insurance may be able to help you cover the costs of repair.
Clean the Property: With Tips
Once your tenant has moved out, and you've completed a walk-through of the property, it's time to start cleaning. A clean property not only looks better but also makes it easier for potential buyers to envision themselves living there.
Here are five tips for cleaning a rental property before putting it on the market:
- Start with the Walls: Over time, rental properties can accumulate dirt, scuffs, and even damage to the walls. Before you start deep-cleaning the rest of the property, give the walls a good scrub with a mild cleaner to remove any dirt or grime.
- Don't Forget the Floors: Whether you have carpet, hardwood, or tile, it's important to give your floors a thorough cleaning. Consider renting a carpet cleaner or hiring a professional cleaning company to ensure that your floors look their best.
- Clean the Appliances: The appliances in a rental property can take a beating over time, so it's indispensable to give them a good cleaning before putting the property on the market. This includes the refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, and any other appliances that will be included in the sale.
- Dust and Clean Surfaces: Once you've tackled the walls, floors, and appliances, it's time to dust and clean all the surfaces on the property. This includes countertops, windowsills, and any other areas that may have accumulated dust or dirt over time.
- Hire a Professional Cleaning Company: If you're short on time or simply don't want to deal with the hassle of deep cleaning a rental property, consider hiring a professional cleaning company to do the job for you. This can save you time and ensure that the property is in top condition before putting it on the market.
A clean bathroom itself is also key to selling a home, so make sure all toilets are unclogged and painted with a new layer of paint.
<H2>Buying New Furniture to Make the Sale</H2>
In addition to the repairs and cleaning, another way to prepare your rental property for sale is by updating the furniture. New decor isn’t just for increased productivity, some people decide to include furniture or appliances like a hot tub or new sofa to raise the price of the home.
Replacing old, worn-out furniture with new, modern pieces can make a big difference in the overall appearance and appeal of the property.
When choosing furniture, it's essential to keep in mind the style and overall aesthetic of the property. Neutral, modern pieces are usually a safe bet and can help make the space feel fresh and inviting.
Investing in new furniture may seem like an added expense, but it can pay off in the long run by attracting more potential buyers and ultimately leading to a higher sale price. Plus, if you select the right pieces, you can take them with you to your new home or even use them to stage the property during open houses.