TWELVE Things Quality Toowoomba Tenants Want
TWELVE Things Quality Toowoomba Tenants Want
The whole key to good property investment is having a good tenant (besides also having a good property manager!).
Without being able to attract a good tenant can result in a whole world of disappointment, so when you’re looking for your next investment property you need to ensure it ticks all the boxes in being able to attract a quality tenant.
Here’s a list of TWELVE things you need to ensure your next property has.
#1- Dishwasher
And not just a ‘dishwasher’... but one that works well!
There’s nothing like an old dishwasher that likes to break down on a regular basis costing you big call-out fees and being charged for expensive parts.
#2- Cooling and Heating
Toowoomba does experience all seasons and it is often the first question a tenant asks about a property.
Quality cooling in either split system or ducted is a must! No good tenant will want a property without quality cooling! If it’s also got ceiling fans that’s a real bonus too! For those cooler days being able to switch on the heating with a split system is a need quality tenants look for. Air conditioners with a "dry" cycle also help with mould prevention in wet weather.
#3- Walk-In and Built-In Robes and Storage
Whether it’s a Walk-In Robe, Built-In Robes and even extra storage rooms and areas are highly appreciated and in fact with a quality tenant…a must!
#4- Ensuites
When dealing with a family, a second bathroom as an ensuite is highly sought after and appreciated by a quality tenant. Naturally, if you’re looking at an apartment for a single or a couple, a second bathroom is no big deal; but if you start moving into housing a second bathroom is considered essential by any family of any real size.
#5- Lock-Up Garage
A single or double lock-up garage is highly desirable as it gives extra storage space and security for vehicles.
#6- Make sure the property is clean
It’s human nature to spot dirtiness that’s not yours to begin with and nothing is a bigger turn-off for a quality tenant looking at potential properties that are visually dirty.
We advise using a professional cleaner to get it ready and also get the carpets professionally steam-cleaned before prospective tenants are allowed to view the property. Presentation for a quality tenant is everything!
#7- Good Quality
Nothing turns away a quality tenant faster and attracts a bad tenant quicker than a property clearly in need of money spent on it and looks neglected.
If the walls need fresh paint and the floors need new carpets it can make all the difference.
Quality properties attract quality tenants.
Ensuring the property is in a good state of repair is also a requirement of the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 with beefed up rules on minimum housing standards coming in 2023 also.
You’re welcome to contact us for advice if you’re looking at a property and you're unsure.
#8- Easy Care Gardens
Let’s face it. Tenants (in general) hate maintaining a garden, especially when it’s not theirs.
Maintaining the gardens as easy as possible with as little water as possible is always a good thing!
Quality tenants can be busy people and they don’t want to be kept busy in the garden.
Make it easy for the with low maintenance gardens that also give the house street appeal.
#9- Flexible with Pets
Gone are the days of cats and dogs and now ‘fur babies’ are part of many people’s lives.
Quality tenants, in general, are responsible pet owners and allowing pets just makes your property even more attractive.
October 1, 2022 sees the introduction of new rental laws that will not allow you to unreasonably refuse a pet.
Worried about pet damage? Speak with us about accessing Landlord Insurance that has pet damage cover.
#10- Gas Cooking
As they say ‘now you’re cooking with gas’! So many people prefer cooktops that have gas for easy control of their cooking.
This isn’t essential for attracting a quality tenant, but it certainly helps!
#11- Adequate Parking
Depending on the property type and size and the tenant type you’re attracting, quality tenants need parking for 1-2 vehicles, and preferably lockable/secured parking.
#12- A Fixed-Term Lease
Every quality tenant wants security with their housing and a fixed-term lease guarantees that!
It gives them a guarantee of tenure should you wish to sell the property but in return it also guarantees your rent.
Make sure you have a quality Landlord Insurance policy as well…please speak with us on how to secure a quality policy that is accessible through our agency.
October 1, 2022 sees the introduction of new rental laws that change the way periodic leases can be terminated and we will only recommend them in the strictest of circumstances.
Contact Bronwyn at McAdam and Turnbull Realty on 46392222 or email [email protected] if you would like to discuss professional management of your rental property.
I am on the side of investors – offering support and advice to Toowoomba investors.