What do tenants want?
Well, it often depends on the tenant you ask.
As longtime professionals in Sonoma County, CA, Healdsburg Property Management has been managing single-family homes, duplexes, four-plexes and multi-unit properties of up to seven units throughout the California Wine Country, we’ve learned a thing or two about what helps properties rent quickly. Tenants are looking for an excellent location, a well-maintained home, and conveniences such as online rental payments and generous pet policies.
Let’s look at these three considerations that tenants are most concerned with when renting a home.
1. Location Matters to Tenants
Everyone understands that real estate is essential when it comes to selling homes. It’s important when you’re renting out a property, too. Tenants want to be in a desirable location, where there are highly rated schools, interesting restaurants, easily accessible grocery stores, and other conveniences.
Unless a tenant is specifically looking for a remote and isolated home, providing a property that’s central to work, school, and entertainment and recreational opportunities is important. Think about this when you’re purchasing an investment property in California’s Wine Country. Will the location attract tenants and increase your rental value? Your location will impact what you can charge and who you will attract. The best tenants in our market will always be thinking about location before they even begin looking for a home.
2. Well-Maintained Homes Attract Tenant Attention
No one wants to rent a home with scratched paint, stained carpet, and broken appliances. Your best residents want a well-maintained property with modern upgrades. They want something clean and spacious, with enough privacy. Everything must be functional and attractive when you’re looking for tenants.
Listed below are some important items to pay attention to:
- Curb appeal
- Energy-efficient appliances
- Working ceiling fans
- Fresh paint
- Landscaping
Tenants are looking for more than maintenance – they’re looking for value. You’ll find that well-qualified residents are willing to pay more when homes are updated and renovated.
Implement some cost-effective upgrades and updates. Replace any old carpet or install hard surface flooring that’s easier to maintain. Install energy-efficient lighting. Even new fixtures on sinks and cupboards can make a difference and make a space look new.
You don’t have to renovate your entire property. But, when you’re working hard to attract well-qualified tenants, it’s a good idea to make your property modern and comfortable.
3. Tenants Want Conveniences and Amenities
Finally, tenants are looking for a high quality of life that includes ease of living. Allowing pets will almost certainly guarantee a lower vacancy rate and higher rents. Renters are willing to pay more when they’re moving in with a dog or cat. They’re also likely to stay in place longer – no one wants to pay another pet fee at a different property.
If you’re not already offering in-unit laundry, consider doing so. Other amenities important to tenants might include:
- Online rental payments
- Parking
- Outdoor space
- Smart home technology hook-ups
You may wish to consider offering these types of conveniences.
These are the top three things most tenants in Sonoma County are looking for. We’d be happy to help you attract more residents to your rental home. Contact our team at Healdsburg Property Management.