As the festive season arrives, landlords in Rugby have the perfect opportunity to prepare their properties for the New Year rental market. January is a peak time for lettings, with tenants actively searching for their next home. Making small but impactful improvements during the Christmas holidays can help your property stand out. At Horts, we’re here to share some practical tips to help you attract tenants and secure a successful let.
Why January is Key for Landlords
January is a time of new beginnings, with many people relocating for work, education, or personal reasons. As a landlord, being prepared for this surge of activity can make all the difference. Prospective tenants prioritise properties that are clean, well-maintained, and appealing. Whether you’re working with a letting agent in Rugby or managing the property yourself, ensuring your rental is market-ready can help reduce void periods and maximise your rental income.
Simple Improvements to Make Over the Christmas Holidays
1. Refresh the Décor
A fresh coat of paint can work wonders in making your rental property feel bright and inviting. Stick with neutral colours like whites, greys, or creams to appeal to a wide range of tenants. Remember that neutral tones make rooms look larger, cleaner and make it easier for tenants to visualise as their home.
2. Deep Clean Every Corner
Thorough cleaning is essential to create a welcoming atmosphere. Pay attention to areas that often get overlooked, such as skirting boards, behind appliances, and inside cupboards. Don’t forget carpets and upholstery too, and hire a professional cleaning service if necessary. Rental properties that are spotless leave a lasting impression on potential tenants.
3. Upgrade Energy Efficiency
With tenants increasingly prioritising energy-efficient homes, making improvements such as adding draught excluders, upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, or installing extra insulation can make your rental property in Rugby more appealing. Not only do these upgrades reduce utility bills for tenants, but they can also add value to your property and demonstrate your commitment to sustainability.
4. Improve Kerb Appeal
First impressions count! Tidy up outside areas by clearing gutters, pressure-washing pathways, and adding potted plants or a new doormat. If you have a garden, make sure it’s neat and inviting - trim bushes, rake up leaves, and remove any clutter.
5. Check for Repairs
Address any maintenance issues that could put tenants off. Leaky taps, squeaky doors, or peeling wallpaper might seem like small issues but can leave a negative impression. A hands-on approach to repairs shows that you’re a responsible landlord.
Getting Your Property Ready for Viewings
1. Declutter and Depersonalise
If your rental property is being let furnished, remove personal or overly bold decorative items. Minimalism helps tenants visualise themselves living in the property. Store any unnecessary items to make rooms feel more spacious.
2. Highlight Key Features
Identify what makes your property unique. Whether it’s a large kitchen, a cosy fireplace, or a balcony with a view, make sure these features are showcased in your property listing and highlighted during viewings.
Partner with a Trusted Letting Agent
Working with a letting agent in Rugby ensures your property gets maximum exposure in the local market.
At Horts, we’re experts in matching landlords with the right tenants. Our team also offers comprehensive property management services in Rugby, giving you complete peace of mind.
The Benefits of Being Prepared
Taking the time to improve your rental property in Rugby over the Christmas holidays will help you attract tenants but could also justify a higher rent. Well-maintained properties also tend to attract responsible tenants, reducing the likelihood of late payments or disputes.
Are you ready to prepare your rental property for the New Year market? Contact Horts today for expert advice and support. Call us on 01788 550044 or email lettings@horts.co.uk.
Whether you’re looking to market a property to let in Rugby or need help from an experienced and trusted property management company, we’re here to help.
You may also be interested to read 'How to Rent Out Your House'
In the meantime, we’ve answered some of your common questions about preparing your rental property for the New Year market.
Frequently Asked Questions About Preparing Your Rental Property
What are the most cost-effective improvements I can make?
Fresh paint, deep cleaning, and updating small fixtures are affordable ways to boost your rental property’s appeal.
Why is January such a busy time for the rental market?
Many people relocate in January due to work or personal reasons, making it one of the busiest months for lettings.
Should I furnish my rental property?
This depends on your target market. Students and young professionals often prefer furnished properties, while families may prefer unfurnished homes.
What are the benefits of working with a letting agent?
Letting agents help you find reliable tenants, manage paperwork, and handle day-to-day issues, saving you time and stress.
Can I increase the rent if I’ve improved the property?
Yes, making improvements can justify a rent increase, but ensure the new price aligns with market rates in Rugby.
