Put yourself into the shoes of someone who has just moved to the neighborhood. From the moment the paperwork is completed, you have a list of concerns that can be overwhelming to think about. Relocating to a new area, packing and unpacking boxes, developing a new routine and arranging a house can make simple tasks like planning dinner cause unneeded stress.
This is a great time to earn the mutual respect that can encourage your tenants to keep an open relationship with you, protecting your property in the long run. Being a great landlord who keeps low turnover can be as easy as helping new tenants where they need it most during the move-in. A great place to begin is where many people store some of their strongest emotions – in their stomach.
If you have lived in the area, or are very familiar with the area, then offering suggestions for good food that is close by can be a huge help for anyone who has been working long hours to move. Sure, there are plenty of apps and websites that offer suggestions of local food, but they lack the trust you gain by speaking from experience. Verbally engaging with new tenants, or preparing a list of some recommended eateries nearby that have some notes about what makes them good can be an easy way to show support that will leave a positive impression. Having access to someone who knows the area pretty well and can lend some advice when needed can put a new tenant’s mind at ease.
A major concern that renters and homeowners share is who they will be living near. Having neighbors that irritate you can make your home feel like a prison, and can be a fast way to lose good tenants. Some people are naturally inclined to form relationships, but there are many who may come across as shy with people they are unfamiliar with. Offering any insights about the neighborhood including basic information regarding who lives nearby and who might be able to assist if they need something can help put a new tenants mind at ease. Knowing you can borrow a cup of sugar, even if you never take advantage of the opportunity, can have a great impact on your comfort level in your neighborhood.
Think about the common things new renters will need to buy, and offer some advice on the easiest place they can go get supplies. Not everyone is prepared with cleaning supplies, basic tools, kitchen necessities, home furnishings and everything else that suddenly becomes essential as room arrangements start to take shape. Tenants might be able to easily find the closest large retail store, but it may not always be the most convenient option for quick needs. If you know of any local shops or resources off the beaten path that could be useful to your tenants then be sure to let them know. It can be frustrating when you spend an hour taking a trip to get items for the house that could have been taken care of in only 20 minutes.
The ultimate goal for any landlord is to keep properties from sitting vacant for too long. The best way to combat this is by keeping tenants happy, beginning as soon as they sign your lease. Selecting the best applicants for your property, however, begins with top quality screening. The next time you have a vacancy, begin the rental process with the confidence that the applicants you select will treat your assets with care.
