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Today’s rental market is more competitive than ever. Tenants have higher expectations and know they have options when looking for their next home.
Understanding what matters to renters helps you avoid empty properties and keep good tenants longer. Better yet, properties that meet these expectations often command higher rents, boosting your returns.
Nothing turns potential tenants away faster than dirt or neglect. A sparkling clean property at move-in is the bare minimum – not a luxury.
Beyond the initial impression, tenants value landlords who stay on top of maintenance. Quick responses to repair requests show you care about both the property and the people living in it.
Watch out for these common deal-breakers:
- Mould or damp patches
- Scuffed walls and woodwork
- Damaged flooring
- Limescale buildup in bathrooms
Even small signs of neglect make tenants wonder what bigger problems might be lurking.
Kitchens and bathrooms sell homes—and rent them too.
You don’t need to install top-of-the-range luxury fittings, but these spaces should feel fresh and work well. Consider:
- Clean, functional appliances that actually work
- Neutral décor that won’t date quickly
- Adequate storage to reduce clutter
- Good lighting (especially in bathrooms)
- Proper ventilation to prevent damp
A kitchen with decent worktop space and a bathroom without mouldy sealant will attract better tenants willing to pay more.
Today’s tenants are more aware of safety standards than ever before. They expect (and legally deserve) properties that meet all safety requirements.
Must-haves include:
- Valid Gas Safety Certificate
- Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
- Working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- Secure windows and doors
- Safe electrical sockets and appliances
These aren’t just legal boxes to tick—they show tenants you’re a responsible landlord who takes their safety seriously.
With energy costs soaring, EPC ratings have become more than just paperwork. Tenants actively look for properties that won’t cost a fortune to heat.
Features that attract energy-conscious renters:
- Effective insulation
- Double glazing
- Efficient heating systems
- Smart meters
- Programmable thermostats
Many tenants will choose a slightly smaller property with better energy efficiency over a larger one that costs more to run.
Small details make a big difference to how tenants perceive your property. Cutting corners on fixtures and finishes gives the impression of a cheaply maintained home.
Worth investing in:
- Durable flooring that can withstand normal wear
- Proper window coverings (not just flimsy blinds)
- Reliable white goods with decent energy ratings
- Solid door handles and cupboard fittings
These items take more punishment than anything else in a rental property. Quality versions might cost more upfront but last much longer.
The pandemic made outside space more valuable than ever, and this trend hasn’t reversed. Even small outdoor areas add significant appeal.
Storage is another often-overlooked feature that tenants prize:
- Bike storage (especially in urban areas)
- Garden sheds for tools or outdoor furniture
- Built-in wardrobes or storage cupboards
Properties with thoughtful storage solutions stand out in a crowded market.
Fast, reliable internet is now considered an essential utility, not a luxury. Many tenants will check broadband speeds before viewing a property.
Location factors still matter hugely:
- Transport links
- Local shops and amenities
- Parking options
Modern touches like USB charging points built into sockets and smart home features can also give your property an edge.
Qeeper supports landlords with reliable services to keep tenants happy and properties in great shape:
- Fix cosmetic issues before viewings or move-ins
- Take care of minor repairs, fittings, and home improvements quickly
- Improve the look and functionality of kitchens, bathrooms, and storage areas
- Stay legally compliant with gas safety checks, EICRs, EPCs, and more
- We schedule, manage, and store all certificates so you don’t have to
- Boost tenant confidence by showing the property is safe and up to standard
Let Qeeper help you create rental homes that tenants actually want to live in—and stay in.
Meeting tenant expectations isn’t about completely overhauling your property—it’s about getting the basics right and making smart improvements.
Clean, well-maintained properties with functional kitchens and bathrooms, good energy efficiency, and thoughtful touches will always rent faster and for more money.
Want to take the stress out of keeping your property tenant-ready? Partner with Qeeper and focus on enjoying the benefits of being a landlord instead of the hassles.