As Derby and the surrounding area have improved and rental prices have increased, the caliber of Tenants and in turn their expectations for a property have increased also.

Below we have listed the top three priorities that most Tenants are generally looking for in a property.

1. Location, Location, Location – The single most important thing for most Tenants is the location of a property. Tenants are generally looking for a property that is as close to the local amenities as possible. Other aspects of a location that Tenants tend to look for are a relatively quiet area and somewhere that feels secure. Some Tenants may also be looking for a property that is close to a particular school. There obviously isn’t anything that can be done to change the location of a property but it is important to ensure that it is being marketed in the right way. For example if you have a property which may not be within easy reach of a local shop but is close to a Hospital then it would be important to ensure that it is marketed in such a way as to attract NHS Staff through circulating the details within the Hospital or working with a Letting Agent who has contacts within the local health authority.
2. Size Matters – The size of a property generally features highly on the list of Tenant’s priorities, the size of the bedrooms is of particular relevance. This is even more important with two bedroom properties and upwards where groups of friends will be looking to live together and will want to have relatively equal sized bedrooms. There isn’t much you can do about the size of the property but the way in which the furniture is arranged can have an impact on the way in which the property is perceived. It is best to try and arrange each bedroom that has furniture in a way that demonstrates that the room is of a sufficient size to accommodate a double bed wherever possible. If a smaller bedroom does not contain furniture or has a desk in it rather than a bed then it may be viewed as a study rather than a bedroom and give an impression of the property being smaller than it otherwise would be perceived. Each property will require a different approach but generally it is best to present a property with the main basic items of furniture in it to show how it can function as home but not to overfill a property.
3. The Importance of Presentation – The overall presentation of a property has a huge impact on whether or not Tenants can see themselves living there. Unlike when people are looking to buy, it is the small things about a rental property that can have a big impact as Tenants are looking for somewhere that is clean and tidy and that they would be able to move into straight away with minimal hassle. This perhaps the easiest thing to affect as a Landlord, and taking the time to ensure the property is well presented to a good standard will not only help you secure a Tenant quicker but will also ensure that you attract a good quality Tenant. Having said this, it is important not to go too far in terms of the cost of furniture and quality of finish as than you are unlikely to see a return on your money. An experienced Letting Agent should be able to advise you on the standard of finish and furniture that is required for the particular market you are aiming for.

The above is intended as general advice and an overview as to what most Tenants in the area are looking for in a property although priorities and requirements do of course vary between different types of Tenant. The important thing to be aware of the expectations of your target market and to ensure that the property is marketed and presented accordingly.