To attract and retain long-term tenants, excellent property conditions are essential.
By maintaining your rental property, not only are you improving your tenant satisfaction, you’re also protecting your property’s condition and you’re increasing the value of that investment.
Keeping your rental in great condition is a no-brainer. But, it can be expensive and time-consuming. Here are some of the ways that we keep it manageable as property managers in Ormond Beach and the surrounding areas.
Tenant Success Starts With a Thorough Screening Process
Great tenants are your best partners when it comes to property care.
A thorough screening process helps you identify renters who are financially responsible and respectful of the space. Look beyond just credit scores and check rental history, call references, and conduct interviews when possible. People who treat their living spaces with care tend to do the same for yours.
When you find a tenant with a proven track record of maintaining their rental homes, consider offering them a longer lease term.
Set Clear Expectations in the Lease
A well-written lease will clearly outline tenant responsibilities regarding cleanliness, routine upkeep (like changing HVAC filters), pet policies, and what to do if repairs are needed. The more detailed you are upfront, the fewer misunderstandings you’ll encounter later. Make sure tenants understand that you want to be told about even minor maintenance issues right away. This will help reduce the number of expensive and disruptive emergencies that occur and protect your investment against the risk of deferred maintenance.
Schedule Regular Property Inspections
Don’t wait for tenants to report problems. Many renters do not notice slow leaks, minor damage, or pest issues until they get noticeably bad. Schedule routine inspections (every 6 to 12 months) with proper notice to identify and address issues early.
Keep inspections friendly and non-invasive. Present them as a way to keep the home safe and enjoyable for your tenants. Most tenants are cooperative, especially when they know to expect them.
Encourage Open Communication
Build trust with your tenants by being responsive and approachable. If they feel comfortable reporting problems early, small issues won’t become big headaches. A leaking faucet or running toilet might seem minor, but over time, it can lead to expensive water damage or inflated utility bills. Offer easy ways to report maintenance requests, such as a simple online form or a dedicated email address.
Invest in Quality Materials and Upgrades
Durable, low-maintenance materials may cost a bit more upfront, but they are worth it when you’re keeping your investment in good condition. Opt for vinyl plank flooring over carpet, semi-gloss paint for easy cleaning, and solid hardware that won’t easily break or rust.
Don’t skip preventative maintenance. Regular servicing of HVAC systems, plumbing, and appliances extends their lifespan and ensures tenant comfort.
Maintaining a rental in great condition over the long term requires good tenant relationships and good vendor partnerships. Make sure you’re working with excellent service providers.
Questions about maintaining your investment and keeping tenants satisfied? We can help. We can also talk about our fantastic maintenance team and our commitment to preventative services. Contact us at Oceans Managing Group. We’re managing rental homes in Ormond Beach, Daytona Beach, and the surrounding areas.
