When you’re preparing to list a rental property, it’s all about presentation. These tips from the Foxtons Premier Clients team may help you put your rental in its best light.
1. The first impression
Imagine an applicant has come to view your property. What's the very first thing they notice when (or before) they step through that door? Is it the scented diffuser or the broken doorbell? The first impression can set the tone for the whole viewing, so make sure it's a good one.
2. Best features
Whether it’s a lovely balcony for breakfasts, interesting period architecture or an abundance of closet space, take special care to accentuate your property's best features (see setting the scene). Let the Photographer and the Negotiator know you’re focussing on these features, so they can promote them too. Also, be sure they’re mentioned in the property ad.
Foxtons Photo of the Week winner
3. Décor and lighting
Keep it simple and impersonal to give renters the freedom to imagine their own items and style. Think neutral tones, and absolutely no clutter. However, you’ll still want to decorate enough to:
1. Make the property look stylish and desirable.
2. Show renters the opportunities in the space, like putting a bistro set in the garden to show how lovely Sunday brunch could be out here.
Our article on boosting home value through interior design has some tips landlords can use.
4. Setting the scene
Got an empty corner? Stage it to help market the property. Setting up a desk can draw in the WFH crowd. Foxtons Premier Clients said, “We’ve seen this work wonders for our corporate clients, who tend to have higher budgets. Even if they want their employees to primarily work in the office, they’re looking for rentals with room where their employees can set up a laptop at home, so it’s a great idea to set up a potential workspace.”
Setting the scene is important, not just for extra space, but for your property’s best feature – draw attention to that lovely kitchen island with a decorative bowl of fruit or fold a fluffy blanket in a basket beside the feature fireplace.
Learn more about appealing to the Corporate market in our recap of a recent Foxtons Premier Clients event.
5. The importance of photography
In an article by the Wall Street Journal, listings with professional photos were said to have around 61% more viewings. Good photography gets people through the door, so we suggest you hire a professional. Or, if you’ve instructed Foxtons to rent your property, you’ll have the fantastic Foxtons Photography Team on your side.
Be clear with the photographers about those best features you want to promote, and ask that they be prioritised in the property ad. It is frustrating to see a beautiful balcony only crop up in the 12th photo, especially when photos 3-7 were of an empty spare room. You’ll also want a good photo of the outside of the property. However, like with the interior photos, set the scene first – wheelie bins and discarded toys do not sell the space.
Here are more tips for great property photos to generate viewings from the Foxtons Photography Team.
Sources:
- If you’re looking for expert insight on your professional lettings portfolio, contact our Premier Clients team to get on the invite list for the next event.
- Most of the real estate photography in this article is from the Foxtons in-house team. Our team shoots premium photos for landlords and sellers, which makes all the difference when marketing a home. Good photography shows properties in their best light, highlights what makes each place unique and guides tenants and buyers to homes they’ll love. Get in touch with your local office to learn how Foxtons can market your property.
