Real Estate Investor Magazine South Africa June 2018 | Page 29

Keep it green While it’s practically impossible to fit a water tank in an apart- ment, there are still some steps you can take to make your rental property more green - and therefore more attractive to tenants. Replacing an old geyser with a heat pump, or add- ing low-energy lightbulbs, can make all the difference to your tenant’s electricity bill. If your property has a garden, keep the costs and time that goes into maintenance in mind. While that rose garden is beautiful to look at, it may very well be a deterrent for young professionals who simply don’t have the time to take care of it. Instead, opt for practical and low maintenance plants. Consid- er minimising the size of the lawn by adding pavers or wood decking. Where possible, look into adding a solar panel (or two), thus alleviating some of the pressure from traditional energy. While we’re on the topic of gardens, ensure your property appeals to prospective tenants right from the get-go. It’s as simple as removing any weeds or debris and ensuring all plants are in a good condition. Kitchens and bathrooms We’ve said it a million times, and we’ll say it again: the kitchen and bathroom usually sells the house. Unsurprisingly, the same counts for rentals. While a complete remodel is a possibility, it’s also costly. Instead, make small and inexpensive changes that will make a big impact. Replacing the handles on and adding a lick of paint to cabinet doors can instantly upgrade the appearance of both a kitchen and bathrooms. Again, look for neutral and timeless styles, as you want these to be attractive to as many potential tenants as possible. Adding new taps can also make a big dif- ference, without breaking the bank. Making renovations and improvements to a rental property can be a good financial decision, but only if you know what to focus on. If you’re unsure about what needs to be done, it’s a good idea to view competing listings to see how yours mea- sures up. Small improvements can not only increase the appeal of your rental, but could also push up the monthly rent. THE DETAILS A fresh coat of paint and new floors can easily be derailed by forgotten details. Here are some last minute things to check before showing your home: Ensure skirtings and hard to reach corners are clean and matches the rest of the room. In the bathroom, ensure the bathtub, shower, sink and toilet are in good working order and clean. If your rental includes appliances, make sure they work as they should and are in a good condition. Investigate all security gates or burglar bars and ensure they are neat and structurally sound. Make sure all light bulbs are working, replace those that don’t. Give the floors one last clean, especially in the kitchen and main living area. If your rental includes curtains or blinds, make sure these are also clean and in good condition. If not, it’s best to remove them altogether. A digital campaign for every pocket Reach out to potential investors today Contact us now: [email protected] [phone] SA Real Estate Investor Magazine JUNE/JULY 2018 27