Our Patch APRIL 2014
Our Patch APRIL 2014
making
good
‘Dated’ would probably be the
kindest way of describing the
property, though luckily the buyer
had enough vision to see past the
interesting choice of carpet
Before
& After
Never mind rolling out the red carpet, pulling it
up is the best option when you come to let your
home, says lettings manager Ashley Clements
T
Gone were the tired furnishings and
décor of old – the house had been well
and truly dragged into the 21st century
18 / 19
here are many variables
which can affect how
quickly and easily a
property is let. Transport
links, local schools and
crime rates are the most
common questions and even
broadband speed is now a major factor.
However, it’s the basic things that are
most often neglected by landlords.
Any dated décor or shabby
furnishings are an immediate turn-off
to would-be tenants. Spending a bit of
cash on the interior can help achieve a
greater yield in the long run.
“There are many cases where we have
strongly advised landlords to replace
carpet and furniture or perhaps repaint
the property in a more neutral colour,”
says Ashley.
“That’s especially true if they have
been unhappy with the initial uptake
their property has received upon
coming to the market. It really is
amazing what a lick of paint can do
when it comes to viewings in your
property,” he adds.
“The best example would be a house
we sold in Hammersmith’s Carthew
Road a few years ago (pictured left).
“The owner bought the property
initially for his children to live in while
they were studying, but also with a long
term view to letting the property out.
“‘Dated’ would probably be the
kindest way of describing the
property, though luckily the buyer
had enough vision to see past the
interesting choice of carpet.
“When the time came that the
client wanted to let out the property,
I have to say I feared we may have a
struggle on our hands. However, the
transformation left me astounded. The
house had been well and truly dragged
into the 21st century.”
The property was rented with ease
– largely because of the superb
overhaul, giving any potential tenant
the chance to easily imagine the house
as their home. And this is also an
important point to remember; small
details such as removing personal
memorabilia in preparation for
viewings can make all the difference.
Though it may not seem like much,
any potential tenant needs to be able to
imagine themselves living in the
property if they are to consider making
an offer. Even if that means stashing
away the family photos temporarily.
Once a good lick of paint has been
applied, a thorough clean before you
open the door to viewings is the final,
and most essential step.
Paying the professionals is almost
always money well spent – even if the
house is brand new. Builders are not
cleaners. But if you follow these top
tips, you’ll certainly have a better
chance of cleaning up.
Carthew Road is a great example of a
savvy purchase. The buyer took
advantage of a strong market in a good
area with a long-term view on how to
get a return on the investment, while
doing the necessary work to ensure the
property was shown at its best.