If you’ve finally signed the contract with your future tenants, it means you’ve gone through a long and tiring process of screening the candidates, communicating, and preparing the paperwork. Even though it might seem all the hard work is done, there are still several things you need to do to prepare the property for the new residents. Here are eight easy steps to welcome your new tenants in the best possible way.
#1 Repair Damaged Areas and Check for Safety Issues
The first step to preparing your property is to check for any damage left by the previous tenants. It is your obligation to solve any potential issues, such as holes in the walls or broken utilities. While you’re at it, make sure to check for any safety issues such as mold or broken smoke detectors. If you need help, consider bringing in a professional to check the heating, plumbing, and electrical systems.
#2 Change the Locks
It is always good to change the locks on the property after the old tenants leave. After all, you don’t want them to have the keys to the place once you rent it out. This could be a safety issue and a risk you definitely don’t want to take. Besides, changing the locks is a very cheap investment that can solve a lot of future headaches.
#3 Clean the Property Thoroughly
Once you’ve checked the property for damage and safety issues, take the time to clean it properly. Even if the previous tenants left it very clean, you should still go over it once again to ensure a positive first impression once the new tenants arrive. If you don’t have time to do this yourself, consider hiring a team of professionals to do the cleaning. A clean property will also set the expectation that you want the new tenants to keep it in good condition, and they will definitely pick up on that hint.
#4 Install VPN on the Router
If you’re wondering what is a VPN, here’s a quick explanation: a VPN is a virtual private network that ensures a safe connection between a device and the internet server (https://nordvpn.com/what-is-a-vpn/) Once you activate a VPN, all your traffic and personal data such as names, addresses, and credit card info will be hidden in an encrypted tunnel and thus protected from hackers. VPNs are an important part of overall online security. Since your new tenants will look for a good internet connection, we recommend installing a VPN on the router to make sure each device connected to the router is fully protected. You never know what your tenants do online, and a VPN might save you a lot of trouble later on.
#5 Provide Contact Information for Local Utility Providers
Tenants hate moving into a new place where the gas is not turned on, or there is no hot water in the shower. To make sure you don’t run into this issue, prepare all the relevant contact information for local utility providers so they can contact the utility companies in case of any issues.
#6 Prepare All Keys and Codes in Advance
It is also a good idea to prepare all the keys and access codes in advance. For instance, if your property has a garage with a special code or a modern security system, make sure to list this information clearly to avoid any confusion. Consider leaving at least two keys for each lock, so the tenants don’t end up locking themselves out if they lose the key.
#7 Give Neighborhood Guidance
If your tenants are new to the city or the specific neighborhood, consider giving them a short tour or let them know where they can find the best deals and services. Showing them around to the best grocery store or your favorite dry cleaning service can help them feel more welcome in the neighborhood.
#8 Put Together a Welcome Package
Lastly, if you want to build a positive relationship with your new tenants (which you should), consider putting together a small welcome package. This doesn’t have to be anything costly. A simple package with a few cleaning supplies, a pack of the best local beverage, or a gift card to the local shop can go a long way. Some businesses will even give you coupons and special offers for your new tenants, all you have to do is ask.
Build an On-Going Relationship
Overall, welcoming new tenants to your rental property doesn’t have to be a stressful process. Follow our easy 8-step guide and make sure you don’t miss anything, from cleaning the property and repairing the damage to setting up a VPN and preparing a welcome package.