Belvoir News Article

08/08/2007 - Making the most of your investment

Forget worn out second hand furniture and gravy coloured carpets. According to Belvoir, the UK’s leading lettings agency anyone looking to maximize returns on a rental property needs to be savvy and furnish their property appropriately to attract good quality, long-term tenants.

The agency, which advises landlords up and down the country, offers the following tips to those looking to make the most of their rental property:
 Décor – less is more. Cream is in, bright red is not!
 Flooring – install hardwood or laminate flooring throughout with plain carpets for the bedrooms.
 Window dressings – go for simple, neutral curtains or blinds.
 Furniture - invest in good quality new furniture, forget second hand. All sofas, beds etc must comply with fire safety regulations.
 Kitchen - include a good range of appliances and white goods - fridge freezer, microwave and washing machine are standard, where possible also include a tumble dryer and dishwasher.
 Garden – provide a lawnmower to encourage maintenance, present the garden or terrace well, include hard-wearing patio furniture.
 Security – fit quality door and window locks, smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and burglar alarms as standard. Security lighting is also appreciated.
 Internet connectivity – ensure your tenant will have instant access to broadband.
 Storage – make the best use of space. Are there un-used nooks and crannies in the property which can be converted into storage space?
 Sky and Cable TV – make sure a cable or sky connection is available.
 Shower – fitting a shower is essential and can be installed easily above a bath. A power shower is a desirable luxury.

Belvoir’s Chief Executive Mike Goddard said: “To maximize returns, we advise landlords to do their homework and make an effort from the outset to furnish their property to a high standard.”



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