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Not owning the property doesn't mean you can't give it your personal touch. Here's how to make your rental feel like home!  Even though you might not own a property, it's only natural to wish it feels yours while you live there. However, this can be challenging for renters in many ways, as renting comes with specific rules. For example, many landlords have a rule against nails on the walls for hanging artwork. That's why it's vital to ask your specific questions to your landlords before you choose the property, as you're the one who's going to be living here. For that reason, we create a list of ways to make your rental feel like home. Some of these ideas will help you feel more "at home" after a long day at work and simply help you enjoy the space more. Make your rental feel like home: Directions Renting a home or apartment can be an excellent option for many people as it gives you freedom and flexibility. Still, it can also feel temporary and lack a sense of belonging. However, for many people, renting is the only convenient option at the moment or the only one that's doable. So, if this is the option you're going for, and you wish to move to a new city and start fresh there, we say: Go on! Once you pack your belongings, find a team you can trust to transport your belongings safely, and say goodbye to your loved ones, you'll experience a mixture of feelings. In all of that, it's essential to be organized and stay on track. So, once you hire interstate movers for your California-Nevada move, it's time to focus on how you'll get a hold of your life in a new home and environment. Therefore, if you're looking to make your rental feel like home, there are several simple and cost-effective ways. Personal touch One of the most effective ways to make your rental feel like home is to add personal touches throughout the space. For example, hang pictures of your family and friends, put up artwork that you love, and display sentimental items like family heirlooms or vacation mementos. These personal touches will help make the space feel more like your own and add a sense of warmth and comfort. In addition to hanging pictures and artwork, there are many other ways to add personal touches to your rental. For example, consider adding throw pillows or blankets in colors or patterns you love or decorative accents like vases or candles. These small details can go a long way in making the space feel more like home. Also, magnetic frames are a good solution if landlords aren't keen on putting nails into walls. Creativity when it comes to storage space Maximizing storage is key to making any space feel more organized and efficient. If your rental lacks built-in storage, there are many ways to create additional storage solutions. Invest in furniture with built-in storage, like a coffee table with drawers or a bed with storage underneath. Alternatively, you can use creative solutions like under-the-bed organizers for this purpose. Another tip for maximizing storage is to declutter regularly and eliminate items you no longer need or use. This will help free up space and make the room more open and welcoming. Lighting is the key Good lighting can make a huge difference in how welcoming and comfortable a space feels. If your rental has harsh fluorescent lighting, consider replacing it with softer, warmer tones. You can also invest in floor or table lamps to create a more cozy atmosphere. In addition to replacing the light bulbs, you can also play around with the placement of your lighting to create a more inviting atmosphere. For example, you could add a dimmer switch to your living room to create a softer, more relaxed feel or use floor lamps to add a warm glow to a bedroom. Plants will make your rental feel like home instantly Adding a touch of greenery can bring life to any space and make it feel more welcoming. Choose low-maintenance plants like succulents or herbs that can thrive in your rental's lighting and temperature conditions. If you don't have a green thumb, consider getting a plant known for being easy to care for, like a snake plant or a peace lily.  Having plants in your rental will instantly give it a more homey feel. Plants add a touch of nature to your home and have many benefits. For instance, they can help to purify the air, reduce stress, and even improve your mood. So not only will they make your rental feel more like home, but they may also improve your overall well-being. Invest in comfy furnishings Having comfortable furnishings can make a big difference in how much you enjoy spending time at home. If your rental came furnished and you chose it based on its staging, you might not have much control over the furniture choices. However, you can still make the space more comfortable by adding throw pillows, blankets, or even a rug to make the furniture feel more inviting. If you have the option to bring in your furniture, consider investing in pieces that are both stylish and comfortable. A cozy couch can make a huge difference in how welcoming and relaxing your home feels. Have a home office If you're working from home, having a dedicated workspace is crucial. Set up a desk or table in a quiet corner of your rental and add personal touches like plants or artwork to make it feel more like your own. Setting up a home office can help increase productivity and create a separation between work and leisure time. So whether you're working on a laptop or a traditional desktop computer, it's important to have a comfortable and functional space to work.  A dedicated workspace will help you make your rental feel like home. Don't forget the outdoors If your rental has a balcony, patio, or yard, make the most of it by adding furniture and decor to create a comfortable outdoor living space. Consider investing in a small grill or fire pit to make the space more inviting and enjoyable. You could also add some potted plants or hanging baskets to bring a touch of nature to the area. If you don't have a lot of outdoor space, you can still create a welcoming area by adding some seating and a small table. This could be the perfect spot for enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning or relaxing with a book in the evening.  If your rental has even the smallest outdoor space, take the most out of it and make it your morning coffee sanctuary. The takeaway from how to make your rental feel like home
Overall, your wish to make your rental feel like home isn't impossible. There are many simple, cost-effective ways to make your rental feel like your own. By following some (or all) of our tips, you can turn your rental into a comfortable and welcoming space that pictures your personality and that you love spending time in. Photos used: Pexels Pexels Pexels Pexels From signing a rental agreement to choosing roommates, here are the things you need to know about renting to roommates as a landlord.  Living with roommates can be challenging. However, as a landlord renting to roommates, things become a little more complicated. You will have to carefully write a lease or a rental agreement. As a landlord living with a roommate, you still have the same rights as if you were renting out the entire unit to them. But there are more things you will need to keep in mind so you and your tenant can be happy. Things such as house rules are essential in situations like these. Let’s see what the most important things to know are. Renting to roommates: a lease vs. a rental agreement A lease versus a rental agreement – which is the right choice for you? Although many people think they are the same, they have one key difference. What makes one different from the other is the time for which you will be renting it out to them. A lease is signed for a more extended period than a rental agreement. A rental agreement lasts much shorter than a lease. It is usually signed from one month to the next. With the rental agreement, you can change the terms before you renew it. And, with a lease, you can’t change the rent price until it is over. A lease can give you security for a more extended time. You don’t have to look for a new tenant and have secured income for a while. But, as a landlord renting to roommates, a better choice may be signing a rental agreement. In case you don’t like living with your roommate, it makes it easier to part ways. The fact that you rent to your roommate does not give you the right to evict them if you do not like living with them. That’s why a short-term contract is the better option for you. You can change the contract terms for the upcoming month if there is anything you wish to change.  A lease or a rental agreement is a must when renting to roommates What you need to have in your rental agreement or lease In your rental agreement or lease, you can add helpful information for you and your roommates. Most importantly, it should contain the cost of the rent. Aside from that, you can have it written down when you want the rent to be due. If you want your roommate to leave a security deposit, write this down. You must, of course, include some basic information about yourself and your roommates. You can use this opportunity to write down some basic ground rules. Write down on what date your new roommate can move in. As experts from statetostatemove.com advise, staying organized during the moving process is crucial. Your new roommate will move in stress-free and can start unpacking on schedule. For example, you can write down whether pets are allowed and under what terms. Another essential thing to include is maintenance. Even though you are living together, you still have to give them notice. You will have to tell them whenever you want to do repairs, upgrades, and other maintenance. Write down the number of days you will let them know beforehand. In the agreement, you can talk about basic house rules. You can write down things such as whether smoking is allowed or not. When you clearly define these things beforehand, you ensure you don’t encounter any problems later.  Choose a roommate you can trust Choosing a roommate as a landlord Finding the perfect roommate may seem impossible at times. When renting to roommates, you want to live with someone you can trust. Plus, you want to live with someone who keeps their home as tidy as you do. All of this may seem challenging to find in one person. However, with careful selection, you can find the ideal roommate to rent to. Before you make a final decision, contact them a couple of times. You want to see what kind of person they are and whether you have a similar lifestyle. Ask questions to see how reliable and trustworthy they are. You don’t have to be friends and like the same things. However, having the same viewpoint on parties and house guests is essential. Even if someone seems like the perfect roommate, talk with multiple people. In case your first choice of roommate backs out, you will have someone else to call. You might be pleasantly surprised and find someone better than your first choice. Either way, you will be more comfortable with your roommate choice when you know you took the time to meet multiple people. One of the things that can help is to ask them for references. You can ask their friends or former roommates for their input. You will feel good about your choice when you know some people can say positive things about your new roommate.  Interview a couple of people before choosing a roommate Be prepared for emergencies
Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. There’s always a chance of your roommate suddenly leaving. They may accidentally cause damage to your property. That’s why being prepared for emergencies is very important. A security deposit is a valuable tool for securing the safety of your property. If your roommate moves out and doesn’t fix any damage they may have caused, you will be prepared. You won’t have to break the bank to get your property in good shape for your next roommate. As a landlord, it’s best to leave some money aside if you can. Finding a new roommate can take a long time. And, during this time, you want to be secured. That’s why creating an emergency budget for this problem is crucial. Even if you find the perfect roommate, it’s still a good idea to have a lease or rental agreement. This will give you safety as a landlord. To sum up Being a landlord and renting to a roommate has its challenges. It is much different from a couple of roommates living together and paying rent to their landlord. You will have to be more careful with your choice of tenants. And you will have to find the fine line between being a landlord and being a roommate. But this doesn’t mean that being a landlord and a roommate simultaneously is impossible. It can be great. When renting to roommates, all you have to do is carefully select them and sign a contract. Now, you know you are secure and have found the perfect person to live with. Photos via: Pexels Pexels Pexels Pexels Besides shelter, your rental property should keep your tenants secure. Read on to learn how to improve the safety of your rental.  We all want to live in a safe place, but as a landlord, you are also responsible for maintaining the safety of someone else's home. You also have an obligation to protect your business's valuable assets. You have a legal responsibility to take reasonable precautions to keep your tenants' homes secure because a break-in is upsetting for everyone involved, especially in the case of furnished dwellings. Although it's unsettling to think about, burglaries do happen to people, and ignoring security concerns won't make things better. In order to improve the safety of your rental, you don't have to break the bank, and there are many options available. Secure the door What is the most important thing you provide to ensure the security of your tenants? If the exterior doors of your building are not secured, burglars and other unwanted guests will have easy access to your tenants and their belongings. Make sure the door locks are working, and the doors are closing properly. Deadbolts are a more robust security measure than a doorknob lock alone. It could be a good idea to place a peephole in the door, so your tenants can see who is knocking.  A secure door is the most important thing to provide to your tenants. Keep the windows secure Rental homes may have multiple entry points, including windows. If the windows aren't locked, burglars might easily break into the apartment, especially if it's on the ground floor or second floor. Make sure that all of the locks on your windows are fully operational and in good condition. Add window bars for your tenants' peace of mind. It's possible that some people will turn down your offer just because of how they look.  A proper lock on your windows will drastically increase your rental safety. Set up smart locks Smart locks require tenants to enter a PIN to enter their homes. Some people want a key fob in addition to the code for further security. These smart door locks are useful for evicting tenants when their lease is up. To prevent the previous tenants from entering, update the code. If you frequently lose your keys as a renter, this is a great solution. They need only learn the code once to never be shut out again. You'll also benefit from this excellent news because you won't need to employ a locksmith or grant them entry to your property. Add to or improve the lighting Having adequate lighting is a simple way to improve the safety of your rental. Safer pathways and more aesthetic outdoor areas are two benefits you can reap from installing automatic lighting. Having a safe rental will usually retain your tenants longer. Look around the rental property after dark to see if there are any areas that could benefit from extra light. Make sure there is sufficient lighting around your home to see everything on the property, even if your tenants don't turn on their outdoor lights. Pathway lighting will ensure the safety of residents walking to and from their homes after dark, and floodlights are an excellent option for lighting the sides of a structure. Think about installing solar panels to cut down on your monthly energy bills. Set up surveillance cameras Formerly prohibitively expensive security camera installations are now more affordable for homeowners, giving you and your tenants more peace of mind. Tenants are prohibited from installing security cameras inside their unit, although they can be used to monitor the front door, stairwells, and back of the building. Because of this, cameras are effective even when they are not actively recording.  As security cameras are more affordable nowadays, there’s no reason not to have some at your rental property. Establish a safety system
A security system is an expensive investment, but it will help you feel protected in your own home. You can find a security system that fits your needs and budget since there are several options to choose from. You also have the option of choosing a home security company. As there are many of them to choose from, you should find an adequate solution to your problems and needs. Door and window sensors, smoke detectors, and motion-detecting lights are all essential components of a comprehensive security system, so keep those in mind while you shop. DIY security devices are convenient since you can easily set them up and access them from afar. As long as you're connected to the device, probably through an app on your smartphone, you'll be able to use it. Monitoring costs are usually not too high on a monthly basis, although some tenants may be willing to pay more for peace of mind. Make exit points accessible One easy way to deter unwanted visitors is to maintain a spotless entrance and exit to your rental home. Trim massive bushes, so they don't block the view of your house from the street. If you're worried about potential criminal activity, you might want to install surveillance cameras at the entrances and exits of your property. By keeping all exits and entryways unobstructed, we ensured that first responders could get to the scene quickly and residents could get out safely. Employ the services of a property manager Hiring a property manager can give you peace of mind whether your building is empty or occupied because they will be responsible for the building's upkeep and security while you are away. Experts at consumeroponion.org suggest that you look for different providers and services online. A property manager can help with issues like maintenance, problem-solving, and security if you are unable to be physically present at the rental property. If you want to make sure your rental property is in good shape and improve the safety of your rental, you can ask the property manager to do random inspections on the tenants. They might even show up when the place is deserted to send a message to would-be burglars that someone is keeping an eye on things and using the space. At the end of a lease, collect all keys Never allow your renters to leave with the keys to your rental property after they have moved out. While your renters may have been reliable and pleasant, you never want extra keys lying around. You never know where the keys will wind up. When your renters leave, meet with them to inspect the unit and hand over the keys. It may take a few hours out of your day, but it will significantly improve the safety of your rental. Photos via: Unsplash Pexels Pexels Unsplash Are you ready to create a perfect home office in your new residence? Here’s how you can do it in a few simple steps.  Whether you're just starting your own business or have been working from home for years, having a home office in your rental can make working from home more enjoyable. Whether you're renting an apartment or a house, these tips will help you get set up with the best possible working space.
Choose a good location Once you've decided on the type of space that will work best for your home office, it's time to find the perfect spot. There are many factors to consider when choosing a location for your home office.
It's all about the lighting When setting up your home office, it's all about the lighting. Once you find a new home and start furnishing it, you want to create an environment that is inviting and comfortable for you to work in. To do this, you need to keep in mind the following:
Get creative with storage solutions The first thing you should do is make sure your storage solutions are up to snuff. This can be challenging if you don't work from home full-time and just need the occasional space to work on some paperwork. But it doesn't have to be impossible. For example, if you have bookshelves at home already, consider using them as storage for your office supplies instead of in the living room where they usually go. It will save space and keep things organized. Another thing you should consider is using a small table in your living room. It would make an excellent surface for storing paperwork or other materials that are easy to reach. If neither of these options works for you, try hanging a shoe rack from an unused wall; this is especially helpful if your rental unit has limited closet space. Finally, if all else fails, plenty of wall-mounted shelves are available online that can make bare walls look like they were meant specifically as storage spaces! Invest in quality furniture When setting up your new office, it's crucial to invest in good quality furniture that will last. You want to be able to enjoy your space for a long time! Before buying furniture for your home office, consider the following:
Decorate with plants and other natural elements For all of these reasons, it's important to decorate with plants and other natural elements. Plants can help improve air quality, reduce stress, purify the air, and save money on heating and cooling bills. On top of that, they can also help you cut down on your energy bill by providing shade from the sun and a break from the wind. This is particularly useful if your office doesn't have much ventilation. The benefits of incorporating plants into your home office design don't stop there! They give off oxygen which helps keep us alert. And if you're a plant person like me, then it's nice having something green around too. Choose a neutral color scheme for your walls When renovating your new home, especially the home office, consider choosing a neutral color scheme for your walls. You want to choose a color that will go with anything and one you won't be tired of looking at years later. For example, some prefer bright colors like red or yellow in their home offices. Mainly because they feel more energized when they look at them. However, if these colors aren't your style or don't reflect your personality well enough, the room may not feel like yours. It's better to choose something neutral, like white or light gray, so it can complement any decorating scheme without being overpowering or distracting from other elements in the room. However, if you have time to plan when you move into your apartment space (or even tap into your creative side), consider painting one wall as an accent color. This way, it won't detract from anything else in the room but adds another dimension for visual interest! Final thoughts We hope that these tips have helped you get started on creating your dream home office. Remember, there's no right or wrong way to do it! As long as you take the time to think through what kind of space best suits your needs and how you want it decorated, then any mistakes along the way will be easy enough to fix. Most importantly, you enjoy working in this space so much that it feels like home, even when you're not at home. Photo via Unsplash Want to keep tenants on your rental properties? Read this list of 7 ways to raise your tenant retention rate now!  It’s the priority of every landlord to keep high-quality tenants in their properties. Tenants that don’t cause trouble and always pay their rent on time. That said, however, you won’t be able to find perfect tenants every single time. Still, it’s also important to remember that tenant turnover is one of the most expensive parts of rental properties. As such, landlords generally need to avoid tenant turnover as much as possible. To help you with this, we’ve put together a list of 7 ways to raise your tenant retention rate. Thoroughly screen tenants before accepting them First up on our list of the seven ways to raise your tenant retention rate is finding good tenants in the first place. Screening your tenants before allowing them to stay on your property is the best way to ensure they won’t cause trouble and you won’t have to kick them out. So, do a background check, verify their income and look into some tenant references. When talking to the tenant references, ask them questions such as: were there issues with the tenant, did they pay rent on time and in full, how did they maintain the property, and would they rent to this tenant again? If you don’t like what you hear, it’s probably best to decline the tenant. Additionally, consider some staging tips for your rental property to attract tenants in the first place.  Thoroughly screening your tenants beforehand is an excellent strategy. Keep rent increases consistent and fair As a landlord, one of the priorities for your rentals is to bring in profit. As such, it’s understandable that, over time, you’ll increase the rent rates to stay profitable. However, prices rising suddenly and by too much can scare off a lot of tenants. Try to keep the increases smaller and introduce them over more extended time periods. Additionally, do market research and justify your reasons for increasing the rent. A good rule of thumb is to keep the rates lower than market rates and implement them slowly. Additionally, experts from Peasley Transfer & Storage advise that, if you do have to turn over a tenant, there are benefits to having a storage unit on standby. A bit of extra space never hurts. Give incentives for lease renewals One of the most important ways to raise your tenant retention rate is to give incentives for lease renewals. After all, your tenants renewing their lease means they will stay on your property, which should be a priority. The most effective incentive is, of course, a discount on the rent. However, this isn’t always an option, and you must get creative. For example, you can consider partnering with companies to offer your tenants deals and other similar things. Remember, you need to keep your tenants interested, so whatever offer you make, you need to make sure it’s something they’ll consider.  Incentives are a great way to keep tenants interested in your property. Keep an eye on the rental markets Local amenities are a big part of retaining your current tenants. If your properties start to get outdated, tenants will look for better places to stay, and you will lose them. As such, it’s essential to constantly monitor the local rental markets and stay up to date with your properties. Remember, upgrades to your rental properties are investments and will pay for themselves in the long run. Of course, questions like should you install smart technology in your rental property are good to ask. But, generally speaking, the answer is usually yes, especially if other properties in the area are starting to do it. Make maintenance a priority Nobody wants to stay on a property that is falling apart, and that’s completely understandable. This means that you should always prioritize maintenance for your rental properties. Be proactive with your maintenance, and make it a routine that you stick to. If some unexpected problems occur, whether it’s a complete accident or the tenant’s fault, make sure to fix them as soon as possible. Of course, avoiding emergency repairs is the best way to deal with them, and if a tenant notifies you of an issue, it’s important to answer promptly and get it fixed. This also builds trust and shows that you are a professional, which are both excellent for tenant retention. Finally, if you need to change the flooring on your properties, consider how to choose the right flooring for your rental property. These things are going to keep your tenants happy and in place.  Proper and timely maintenance is excellent for tenant retention rates. Provide quality customer service
No matter how you look at it, customer service is essential for all businesses, and rentals are the same. If your tenants feel heard and valued, they will likely stay on your properties. This starts as early as their move-in date. You must provide all the information your tenant needs to move into the property. From there on, make sure to listen to their requests and worries and reply promptly. If any sort of issue arises, answer them as quickly as possible and see that they’re solved just as quickly. And when dealing with problems or general maintenance, keep your tenants updated on the progress. Remember, everyone likes being heard and valued, and it goes a long way for your tenant retention rate. Be professional but also personable Every landlord has measures and punishments for damage to the property, missed payments, and other issues. It makes sense, as they need to enforce the lease rules to stay in business. However, remember also to be understanding with your tenants. For example, if your best tenant happens to miss a payment, try to check in with them. See what the problem is and try to find a solution instead of immediately resorting to punishments. 7 ways to raise your tenant retention rate – wrap up Landlords need to ensure their tenants stay on their properties to avoid losing profit. Thankfully, there are quite a few easy ways to increase retention rates if you’re willing to put in a little effort. We hope that this list of 7 ways to raise your tenant retention rate helps you out. Photos used: Pexels Pexels Pexels Pexels There is no universal solution to this issue. Many factors come into play if you should install smart technology in your rental property, including the type of rental property you own, the number of units in your building, and the preferences of your tenants. Landlords who want to improve their property's efficiency and the quality of life for their renters may find smart technology a worthwhile investment. But it is essential to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of any smart technology solution before making a choice. Landlords should carefully consider their options because there are many ways to accomplish the same goals without spending money on smart technology.  How does smart technology function in a rental?
Electronic plug adapters and freestanding sensors are external devices that can provide the same functionality as a system hardwired into the house's structure and managed from a central control panel without requiring installation or rewiring. These home automation systems help people build "smart" homes that can be controlled by an app on a user's smartphone or tablet over a wireless, direct connection. Builders and investors in the rental market are weighing the pros and cons of installing smart home automation systems to, among other things, attract tech-savvy tenants who are willing to pay higher rents and to more actively manage maintenance, increase security, and prevent property damage. Renters who want smart home features but whose landlord is unwilling to provide them can save money by buying their own devices that won't void the lease or cause damage to the property. Now, let’s go over some pros and cons of smart technology in rental properties: Pros: Safety in the home is enhanced through automation. If you want to keep an eye on the safety of your property's perimeter and prevent and lessen the impact of structural issues like leaking pipes, then you should set up cameras and sensors. All Season Movers can give you plenty of helpful advice if you're moving to a new, unfamiliar neighborhood. Security systems give tenants peace of mind and assist in preventing unwanted intrusions, but the level of protection they offer depends on the system's design and implementation. For a studio, a door sensor and a smart security camera are enough, but for a bigger home, you may need more sensors to keep track of all the doors and windows. Remember that you are responsible for adhering to all laws and ordinances in your area and protecting the privacy of your tenants. Camera installation in a rental property requires confidence on both sides, whether you are the tenant or the owner of the rental property. The renter needs to know that you won't be sneaking around in their home. Automation of energy Another reason to install smart technology in your rental property is energy automation. Smart technology can alleviate landlords' concerns about their tenants accidentally leaving lights on or the temperature set too high or too low while they are away at work or on vacation. The smart lighting, thermostat, and plug systems all aim to control the temperature in a room, turn off individual outlets, reduce energy waste, and protect the environment. There is also the option of installing energy monitors, which can help you save money by tracking energy use down to the individual room level and revealing any potential energy leaks. Smart instruments can reduce your maintenance costs by hundreds Water collecting in one spot can become a serious issue soon. Unfortunately, problems that begin anywhere (the basement, a tenant's washing machine, or even beneath their sink) may go undetected for long enough to cause significant harm. Smart moisture sensors are affordable, hassle-free insurance coverage that you may install in such areas. With this gadget, you'll be notified as soon as an issue is detected, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars on maintenance. Moisture sensors can be a lifesaver if you own a property with a basement or another potentially hazardous area that isn't monitored or used daily. Cons: Where do you stand with your online connection? If your Wi-Fi connection is weak, your smart devices won't be able to do their jobs properly, defeating the purpose and making life more difficult for you. Before installing smart connections, you should make sure that your community has the necessary connectivity to support them. Concerns about safety One of the cons of having smart technology in your rental property is the question of safety. While smart technology has the potential to enhance the safety of a rental property, it also presents its own set of challenges in this area. Theft may occur, for instance, if you're renovating, so renting self-storage can be a great solution for your items. To mitigate this risk, landlords should only deploy smart devices that have been thoroughly researched for vulnerabilities and patched when necessary. In addition to fixing any problems, they should show tenants how to use the equipment correctly. Some risks come with putting smart technologies in rental properties, but you can lessen these risks by taking the proper steps. LEARNING CURVE There is a learning curve associated with using any technology, and for those who aren't up to date on what's possible in the digital realm, smart technology might seem particularly daunting. Because of this, it might help to have analog options for renters who aren't as good with technology or to choose devices with apps that are easy to use. Numerous high-tech home automation products are currently available. There are benefits and drawbacks to installing smart technology in your rental property. Research the products and manufacturers to find the best fit for your needs before making a purchase. Well-implemented technology may make a landlord's job easier. If you put in the time to learn about your demands and those of your tenants, you'll be able to zero in on some fantastic technological options for your rental home. Photo Credit. Follow these staging tips for your rental property and find the best possible tenants in the shortest amount of time.  For people that want to rent out their property, two things are crucial: to rent fast for their asking price and to have a great tenant who will stay for an extended period. You will have to make potential tenants feel amazing in your property to achieve both of these goals. As all great results usually involve some hard work, it is understandable that you will need to make specific efforts to achieve what you want. It is well known that staging homes yield fantastic outcomes both with tenants without any of their furniture and those that want to rent an empty property. In the following text, 7 staging tips for your rental property will wow your tenant candidates. 1. Your rental property must be clean and clutter-free No one wants to live in a filthy home with numerous unnecessary objects. Also, everything that looks like a lot of work throws off potential renters. Besides, untidiness inspires mistrust in many people, so your first step towards successful staging and renting is the good old cleaning. If you want to be efficient, don’t rush into it without a plan. Get the cleaning supplies first and clean each area at a time to be energy-efficient. Too many objects that haven’t got much of a purpose must go. If your rental property is full of items that make the space too personal and crowded, you should do a thorough decluttering. Do you find it hard to part with your stuff and do not know where to put them? A potential solution for you would be to rent a storage unit. In any case, clean your property and remove what is unnecessary, leaving only the essentials. That will get you a blank canvas for the actual staging. 2. Observe the home as a whole One of the staging tips for your rental property you should always have in mind is that you are dealing with a whole and not rooms of which each comes from its own story. The human mind likes harmony; all else makes it uncomfortable. Once you select the style, stick to it throughout the house. One of the experts from Spyder Moving, with extensive experience, says the interior designers working on his clients’ houses advised people to observe open doors as paintings. You wouldn’t put a painting that doesn’t match the room, would you? And the doors to adjoining rooms are usually open very often, so try to make the view through them fit the surroundings. 3. One of the staging tips for your rental property is to be mostly neutral When it comes to taste, it's impossible to please everyone. What you might consider stylish, your future tenant might deem awful. The safest choice is to remain as neutral as possible. This refers to colors as well as furniture style. Neutral shades do not cause energetic, emotional reactions, so most people feel ok with them. For a bit of a twist, introduce the occasional pop of bold colors. To appeal to a larger number of viewers, restrict those to details that one can easily replace in case the potential renters hate them. When viewing a place, people like to imagine how their life would be in it. They even sometimes consider where they would put their stuff and make it more of their own. Therefore, do not add too many personal touches, leave it more devoid of personality and let them personalize it in their mind. You might want to give them advice on decorating a rental apartment and creating an even stronger connection to your rental property.  eeping it simple when it comes to colors and design is one of the staging tips for your rental property that will get it to be appealing to a wider group of people. 4. Add details that invoke a sense of luxury Do you remember the little details in the hotel rooms that made you feel pampered? They are not significant investments, but they make a great impression. You can do that, too, when you are staging your rental property. For example, you could get good quality towels and robes of the same color as the bath and arrange them just like in hotels. Also, high-end soaps are not as expensive, but everyone likes to see them. How about a collection of slippers in the same shade dominant in the home? That will wow the visitors right at the entrance. Apart from placing matching dishcloths in the kitchen, you could get a set of dishes that includes coffee cups. Finally, people love good bedding sets, so get high-quality ones. This will make your property more attractive to renters, and it won’t cost you too much. 5. Designate each room for a specific purpose and make it practical Since you are staging a home and not showing it as an empty property, ensure each room’s purpose is clear. Any confusion that comes to people’s minds about what that particular room is for will make it redundant in their heads. That is not what you want; you want them to think the entire space your property consists of is necessary. So, put only bedroom furniture into bedrooms, and make kids’ rooms child-oriented. All will be clear in your potential clients’ heads, and your property will look better. 6. Don’t forget the curb appeal and the balcony Don’t neglect the outside of your property. If there’s a yard that requires landscaping, make sure you have brought it to perfection. Again, people prefer to move into a home that does not immediately need work. When it comes to landscaping design, keep it simple so the tenants think it is effortless to care for it. The balcony is another matter, and it deserves attention just like all other rooms in the house, if not more. This is a place people like to chill, so try to make it cozy.  Your property’s yard deserves as much attention as the inside of the home. 7. Make sure your rental property smells and sounds fantastic Let’s put it this way: your rental property is like a lady that is going on a date. Yes, it should be pretty, but it should also smell nice and sound fantastic. There are many air fragrances out there that will make your home smell divine, and everyone that comes to see it will fall in love immediately. As for the sounds, soothing music on TV or the stereo system will do. Everyone will be instantly transported into some relaxing scene in a movie and will want to stay there longer.  Get your property to seduce potential renters with its smell by getting purchasing a nice air fragrance for it. Final thoughts
As you can see, with these staging tips for your rental property, you will find perfect tenants that will be ecstatic to have found the home of their dreams. Just put in some effort, and it will turn out to be worth your while. You will be making someone’s life better and achieving your renting goal. Now that’s what I call a perfect end of the day. Photos via: Pexels Pexels Pexels Pexels Wondering what kind of floor is best for rental property? Read this guide on how to choose the right flooring for your rental property now.  Choosing the flooring for a rental property can turn out to be a difficult choice. After all, picking out the right flooring for a rental is much different than choosing for your own home. Replacing the flooring in a rental property is an investment, and you want to ensure it pays off. As such, making the right choice is vital to your long-term success, and you should consider it carefully. There are a lot of factors that go into this choice, and you need to consider all of them. To help you out, we've put together a guide on how to choose the right flooring for your rental property. Choose based on location When trying to choose the right flooring for your rental property, you should consider the location. This is because certain types of flooring are better suited to different environments, and you can feel the difference. For example, if your property is in an area that is hot and humid, tile flooring is the best choice. Hardwood flooring is typically considered the best option; however, there are certain situations where other choices are better. As such, look into what every type of flooring offers. Pick the one with the most benefits in regard to the surface you will be laying it on. Little things like this are a big part of making your property more attractive to renters. Your main goal, after all, is to attract tenants to your property and always have someone staying there. So, using everything you can to make the property attractive should be a priority.  Choose based on target clientele When you want to choose the right flooring for a rental property, you have to consider what kind of clientele you want to attract. For example, if your property is a high-end rental, the tenants will expect lovely flooring. Luxurious flooring is required for high-end rentals; therefore, you should consider options such as hardwood flooring or other durable and fancy floors. On the flip side, if you're targeting tenants in a less fancy area, you can get away with cheaper flooring. Remember, you should only invest in your property as long as it's profitable. So, for less valuable properties, you're better off choosing low-maintenance flooring. Additionally, experts from 24/7 Logistics Services note that you should be very careful when moving new furniture into your properties. After all, you want to ensure that the property doesn't get damaged, and flooring gets damaged quite easily when furniture is transported onto the property. Think about being pet friendly Do you plan on allowing tenants with pets in your rental property? Well, you should know that this limits your options quite a bit. All in all, all flooring options that can trap shed hair are out of the question. Additionally, you shouldn't use flooring which is susceptible to stains. This leaves you with three choices: laminate, hardwood, and tile flooring. These three options are the best for pet-friendly properties since they don't trap shed hair and are very easy to clean. Laminate is a particularly good fit as it's also relatively low maintenance in the long run. However, when you are interested in keeping your property in good shape, you should also consider some tips for preventing water damage in your rental home. The less you worry about maintenance, the better in the long run. So, consider how you can protect your investment early on.  Invest in durable flooring Are tenants frequently changing in your property? Then you might want to consider durable flooring. This is because short-term tenants don't take as much care with the property as you might like. Unfortunately, this leaves the property at higher risk of damage, and damage to the floor is quite common. Additionally, if you're frequently changing the furniture in the property, durable flooring is also a good choice. The most durable floors you can find are laminate, linoleum, vinyl tiles, and vinyl sheets. Durable flooring is generally fairly low maintenance, so you can get more than one benefit from the investment. However, remember to think about where to put the furniture in the property while installing the new floor. You can also consider disassembling furniture to make it easier to move and avoid any possible damage to the furniture during transfer. Transferring your furniture while it is in pieces is also safer for the flooring. Consider low-maintenance flooring Low maintenance flooring generally has the highest return on investment rates when compared to other flooring types. This is because you don't have to put much effort into maintaining this type of flooring. We've already mentioned laminate, linoleum, vinyl tiles, and vinyl sheets as part of this category. However, for more (and some cheaper) options, you should consider engineered hardwood, carpet, cork, and floating wood tiles. The longer you can put off maintenance, the better, and these flooring options serve that purpose quite well. And when it comes to saving money, you should also consider ways to save water at your rental property. You'd be surprised how much of a difference saving water can make in your profits. So, do your research and implement multiple ways to save more money in the long run.  How to choose the right flooring for your rental property – wrap up
Choosing the right flooring option for your rental property can significantly affect how successful the property is overall. It might come as a surprise, but flooring plays a huge part in attracting tenants and as such, making the right choice is vital to your property's long-term success, especially if you change tenants frequently. The decision can come down to several factors, but what's important is that you do your research and consider every option carefully before coming to a final decision. After all, changing the flooring can take a while, so you should avoid having to do it often. We hope this guide on how to choose the right flooring for your rental property helps you come to a decision, and we wish you a good day. Photos via: Pexels Pexels Pexels Pexels  Concerned about water damage on your rental property? Read our list of 7 tips for preventing water damage in your rental home now! Water damage is a serious problem across many US homes, causing billions of dollars' worth of damage every year. The reason that water damage is so prevalent is that every home has running water. To make things worse, water leaks are very hard to detect before more extensive damage is already done. Untreated water leaks are especially harmful in rental properties, as they can seriously affect the investment and livelihood of the landlord and property manager. So, to help you avoid issues with your rental property, we have put together a list of 7 tips for preventing water damage in your rental home. 1. Inspect plumbing yearly or biannually The best way to deal with plumbing issues is to catch them before they become more severe. As such, inspections are essential to preventing water damage in your rental home. After all, most leaks and old pipes have warning signs before they burst and start flooding. So, the only way to miss them is to neglect regular inspections. Or, if you are doing regular inspections, they aren't thorough enough to spot the problem. Make sure to hire experts, or if you're doing the check yourself, make sure you know what you're looking for. And while we're on the topic, you should know the difference between normal wear and tear vs property damage. We recommend that you perform these checks yearly, but biannually can also work.  Regularly checking your property for plumbing issues is vital to preventing them. 2. Inspect the roof, chimney and attic It can be easy to focus solely on the water damage inside a home. However, water damage can just as easily come from outside, especially in states with a lot of rain. Regular checks of your roof, attic and chimney can reveal wear and tear, which can quickly evolve into more severe issues. You should do this check biannually; however, we recommend inspecting the outside of your home after every heavy rainfall or snow. Additionally, if you're someone who's moving into a rental property, experts from heartmoving.us recommend doing a check as soon as you move in to make sure. After all, you don't want the damage to be blamed on you, so prevention is in your best interest too. Landlords are advised to perform a move-in inspection and note all pre-existing damage on a checklist. 3. Regularly clean and maintain gutters Another common source of water damage is the home's gutters. After all, the point of gutters is to direct water away from the house, which is a good thing. However, when they're not cleaned or get damaged, gutters can have the exact opposite effect, and they can retain water. If water gets stuck in your gutters, it can cause severe damage to your roof in the long run. As such, after every heavy rainfall, or every few months, you should ensure the gutters are cleaned and well maintained. Remember, the most common issues of this problem are ice damming and gathered debris. As a tenant, you can easily do a check yourself, but be careful not to damage the gutters yourself while checking. As for property owners, remember that keeping the property well maintained is an excellent way to make your property more attractive to renters.  Keeping the gutters clean is very important for avoiding water damage. 4. Insulate the pipes Even if your tenants take excellent care of the pipes in your property, or if you give them guidelines on how to do it, problems can still happen. As such, installing pipe insulation is the best way of preventing water damage in your rental property. Sure, this isn't the cheapest thing to do, but the price of having the insulation installed is tiny compared to how much you'd have to pay to replace burst pipes. As for tenants, always be careful how you use water fixtures around the home. The tiniest mistake can lead to serious consequences. And if you're planning to move out of a rental property, especially when it comes to apartments, you want to make sure you leave everything spotless when moving out. Landlords should talk to their tenants and remind them that they will perform a move-out inspection, so everything needs to be in order. 5. Maintain basement drainage If your property has a basement, it's crucial to ensure no water gets stuck in it. It's easy for the basement to flood and for that to go completely unnoticed. However, fixing a basement flood isn't as easy as solving other problems around the house. So, making sure the drainage system is working properly is quite important. Regular checks on the drainage system, preferably every few months, should help you prevent water damage in the basement. Also, if the basement is used to store belongings, this becomes ever more important. The last thing you want is to go into your basement and find everything you kept there to be drenched. However, it would help if you also considered how a property manager can benefit from a storage solution.  If a basement floods, it can cause serious structural damage, so make sure the drainage is working properly. 6. Use a catch basin
Some properties can have issues with water gathering around the base. A good solution, in this case, is to install a catch basin, which will ensure no water gathers around the home's base. A catch basin will effectively redirect the water from the basement and foundation, thus preventing structural damage. 7. Install a sump pump An excellent way to make sure there's no water building up in your basement is to use a sump pump. Essentially, any water which might otherwise gather in the basement will drain into the sump pit, which you can later pump out a distance away from the house. However, keep in mind that sump pumps must also be maintained regularly to work properly. Closing thoughts Water damage is one of the common issues in properties all across the US. However, avoiding this kind of damage is very important for rental properties, as the damage can seriously lower the property's value and the landlord's investment. So, it's imperative to do your best to prevent it both as a tenant and a manager. Fortunately, most ways to do this are straightforward, only needing regular checks to ensure problems don't become serious or stop them outright. We hope this list of 7 tips for preventing water damage in your rental home helps you avoid water damage, and we wish you a great rest of your day. Photo Credits: Pexels Pexels Pexels Pexels  As a homeowner, it can be challenging to determine whether downsizing is right for you. However, by understanding what downsizing means and looking at the benefits, you can often make the best decision for yourself with relative ease.
If you’re trying to determine whether now is the right time to downsize, here’s what you need to know, courtesy of Clark Real Estate. What Is Downsizing? According to the Cambridge Dictionary, downsizing means moving “to a smaller home, usually because your home has become too large for you or as a way of saving money.” It’s a common activity among homeowners, particularly during significant life transitions. For example, some homeowners downsize after their children head to college or otherwise move out, often because they no longer need as much space. Others decide to downsize as they prepare to retire, allowing them to simplify their lives, cut costs, modernize, and reduce home maintenance-related burdens. Exactly how your new home differs from your last one can vary. In most cases, you’ll have less square footage when you downsize and might have fewer total rooms. The Benefits of Downsizing Decluttering Reduces Stress Unless you previously embraced a minimalist lifestyle, there’s a good chance you’ve currently got some clutter. When you downsize, paring back on your belongings is typically part of the equation. Not only does it make it a great excuse to declutter, but eliminating that extra stuff can reduce stress. You won’t feel overrun by your belongings, giving you peace of mind. Plus, there are plenty of simple approaches that make downsizing easier. You could try: Less Cleaning to Manage Another one of the major downsizing benefits is less cleaning. When your home is smaller (and there’s less clutter), your cleaning needs go down. You’ll have fewer surfaces to contend with and less overall square footage, letting you tackle all of your needs in less time. Since your home won’t have as much maintenance, you’ll have more time to spend on activities you enjoy. If you’ve regularly felt pressed for time, that alone can make downsizing worthwhile. Reinventing Yourself When you downsize, there’s nothing that says you have to stay in the same neighborhood. Instead, you could set your sights on a new location, giving you a chance to reinvent yourself after you move. In many ways, a move can be a fresh start. By coupling it with downsizing, you’ll get both benefits at the same time. Smaller Energy Bills When it comes to financial benefits, downsizing your home typically shrinks your energy bills. You’ll have less square footage to heat or cool, and that alone can make a big difference. Additionally, you might have fewer light fixtures or may be able to shift to smaller appliances that run more efficiently. As a result, your energy bill could go down quite a bit without you having to change your lifestyle. Making Money from Your Home Sale If your current home is larger than your new one will be, you have a money-making opportunity. Smaller houses typically cost less than their larger counterparts. As a result, there’s a decent chance you’ll earn a bit of profit on the sale that won’t have to go to your next property. The extra cash could help you accomplish a variety of goals. You could eliminate debt, making your budget easier to manage. Handling a large purchase, tackling some renovations, or taking a vacation might also be viable options. Try a home sale proceeds calculator if you aren’t sure how much money you could make by selling. That way, you can estimate the property’s value and your potential profit, giving you a decent idea of what to expect. Protect Your New Home When you downsize your home to save money, the last thing you want to happen is having to spend a lot of money out of pocket to fix several things breaking at once. You can protect yourself from this circumstance by finding the company with the best home warranty for your home. A solid home warranty will protect you in the event of an HVAC or plumbing issue, ensuring that it gets repaired quickly. All you’ll have to pay is the trade service fee. Read testimonials online to find the best provider for you. There are a host of financial benefits to downsizing your home. If it’s time for you to downsize, get started decluttering and organizing, sell your home at a profit, and protect your new home with a warranty. Image via Pexels |
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