Move-In Prep: Tips for Landlords Preparing to Welcome a New Tenant
A quick search on the Internet for moving tips provides a plethora of information from moving day checklists, mishaps to avoid, and moving how-to’s, but what you will find is that a majority of this information pertains to the tenants. However, as a landlord or property manager, you know from first-hand experience that there is much to be done when preparing a space for a new tenant. So, wouldn’t it be helpful if there were some advice catered specifically to you? Well, the following tips will help you prepare for your new tenant so you can welcome them with open arms.
Inspect it Thoroughly
Before a tenant moves in, it is up to you to inspect the property to ensure it is up to your standards and make any necessary fixes or improvements before move-in day. An inspection is more than a walkthrough – it’s a thorough inspection of the space to enable to you to take stock of the current status of the space so you can hold the appropriate party accountable as well as limit the likelihood of a security deposit disagreement. To make sure you have all your bases covered, use a move-in checklist to ensure you don’t miss anything, as you’ll need to check out everything from the walls and floors, to small details such as light fixtures, outlets, window screens, and bathroom caulking. Consider taking photographs of the unit to be used should there be a dispute over charges. Have the tenant sign off on the inspection, and make sure all parties have a copy. Keep in mind that the inspection doesn’t stop on move-in day. It is a good idea to check in regularly with the tenant to check for damages, illegal activity, and safety issues, as well as address any repairs or tenant concerns.
Keep It Clean
Whether or not someone lived in the space previously, a clean-smelling environment is a welcoming environment. Before move-in, give the space a deep clean including mopping, sweeping, vacuuming, washing windows, scrubbing bathrooms, and dusting in all those hard to reach places. If dirt and grime have stained walls and windows, now would be a good time for a fresh coat of paint. While you are in cleaning mode, have an exterminator come in and spray for bugs and pests so that you can let your tenant know you went the extra mile to ensure that their new home is safe and clean. Speaking of safety, make sure the necessities such as electric and plumbing are in good working order well in advance of move-in day.
Take Your Welcome to the Next Level
Moving into a new place is an exciting experience, but it is also filled with unknowns, questions, and maybe even a little bit of anxiety. To ease some of the move-in stress, send your new tenant a welcome letter via snail mail or email a few weeks before move-in day and include important information such as how to turn utilities on, where to go to pick up keys, parking information, and contact information. If you really want to go above and beyond, provide your new tenant with information on moving truck rental information so that they can quickly and easily find reviews and costs. Be sure to also detail the best place to load and unload to avoid blocking traffic and cut down on move-in exhaustion from long treks carrying armfuls of stuff. Consider surprising your tenant with a move-in day welcome basket with items such as snacks, drinks, toiletries, and suggestions for fun things to do or good places to eat nearby (coupons wouldn’t hurt either).
Securing a new tenant is exciting, and the new cash flow is certainly a bonus. However, don’t let all the excitement cloud your most important priority – a happy tenant. Make sure the space has been thoroughly inspected and cleaned, and provide your tenant with all the necessary information for a happy and stress-free move-in day.
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