Decoration
The quality of interior decoration may substantially affect the level of rent achievable on a property. Whether your own home or a rental investment, take advice so that the decoration is chosen to suit the market.

• Keep carpets and walls neutral. Whites and creams make a cleaner, fresher impression.
• Paint finishes are easiest to maintain. Wallpaper may be expected in higher value properties.
• Good quality carpets and curtains. Particularly important in unfurnished property where they are highly visible.
• Kitchens should be well equipped. Ideally a dishwasher, large fridge/freezer, washing machine, separate tumble drier and microwave.
• Bathrooms should have high quality fittings and be well lit. Power showers and fully tiled floors and walls are expected by corporate tenants.
• The provision of ample wardrobe space in the bedrooms is important.
• Corporate tenants will expect an exacting standard of finishes. Woodstrip floors, low voltage lighting, granite work surfaces are all popular.

Furnished or unfurnished
A landlord enjoys the same legal protection whether the property is furnished or unfurnished. The majority of Central London properties are offered furnished whereas Country properties are more likely to be unfurnished. Furniture, fabrics and upholstery must comply with fire regulations.

Unfurnished: Definition
An empty property that includes carpets, curtains and white goods. (Some or all) The rent ultimately achieved for an unfurnished property may be similar to a fully furnished property.

Fully Furnished: Definition
A property ready for immediate occupation, including furniture, linen, all kitchen utensils and pictures. Clean, crisp and uncluttered properties are most suitable for the letting market.

Budgeting for rental investments
The amount you should expect to spend on furnishings is approximately 5-6% of the purchase price of the property.

With a Short Let property the tenant must be able to live comfortably having arrived with just a suitcase. The property must include all furniture, kitchenware, crockery, linen and laundry including sufficient towels.

Presentation tips during marketing of your property
In order to attract tenants to select your property it is essential to present optimum viewing conditions:

• Take advice on current interior styles
• Keep the overall look uncluttered,
  clean and crisp.
• Supply a few simple accessories such as
  fresh flowers.
• Keep gardens well maintained.
• Make beds up with new linen.
• Professionally clean the property.
• Keep the property well aired.

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