Friday, April 20, 2012

Presenting your property for the rental market.

First impressions really do count when it comes to presenting your property for the rental market.

In the increasingly competitive lettings market in Devon & Somerset, we are seeing more and more of a direct correlation between the time spent preparing your house or apartment for photography and viewings, and achieving a speedy let at the best possible price.


By far the most essential tool in marketing a property is the internet, with the vast majority of people searching online for their next home. The photographs displayed do more to create interest in your property than anything else, and it is therefore extremely important to get the basics right in order to achieve the best look for your property.

As an example, we recently agreed a property in East Devon within 24 hours and the owners willingness to take our advice on presentation onboard, undoubtedly aided the result.

By the time we came to take on the instruction, the house was not only well decorated, but also clean and uncluttered.

Whatever type of property you are letting, whether it’s a townhouse in Taunton, a country cottage near Crediton or an apartment in Exeter, there are some key areas to get right.

The outside of the property although often overlooked, is essential in creating the right first impression. Ensure that the windows and sills are clean, any foliage is trimmed and tidied and any grass cut.

Internally, the same basic rules apply. De-clutter your surfaces, particularly in the kitchen and sitting room and ensure that the property is not overstuffed with furniture - the appearance of space is vital. Clean towels in the bathroom are always a nice, and the removal of at least some of ones personal effects from around the home can help prospective tenants visualise themselves living in the property.

For further advice on presenting your home for rental, or a no obligation lettings appraisal, please don’t hesitate to give us a call on 0845 301 6618 or get in touch with Scott Bates and Coles.