Propertymark has released its guidance on how you can prepare your rental property for the summer lettings market. It has been a challenging year for the property market with lockdowns, restrictions on movement and our ability to view or move into new homes. The residential and student lettings market is starting to get back to normal – with a significant easing of restrictions from Monday May 17th. As a result, a significant number of people are currently seeking a new home especially those who require more inside space to accommodate home working, and more outside space as overseas holidays are still out of reach for many. If you are advertising to rent out your property in the spring and summer months, there are some steps you can take to make your property more appealing and to mitigate any danger of having to make repairs once your tenants have moved in.

Insurance

It’s essential that you have suitable insurance to protect your investment should anything happen. In Scotland in particular, we suffer from wet and damp weather that can take its toll on buildings. Check that your policy provides protection for any weather-related damage and find out if there are ways to reduce your premium such as more secure windows and locks, CCTV or a house alarm. You should also consider insurance against non-payment of rent as the economy still recovers from the pandemic.

Décor

Your best bet is to give your property a neutral décor so that they can envisage their belongings in your property and can picture themselves living in the space. Remove anything personal such as unique furniture, pictures on the wall, loud colours or patterned wallpaper. Keep the windows clean and use tie backs on curtains to maximise the natural light. Keep the décor simple, plain and tasteful so that they don’t feel they are living in someone else’s home.

Maintaining the garden

Over the last year tenants and homeowners have realised the importance of outside space as we were not only locked down in our homes but only allowed to socialise outside for a long period of time. This has led to a once-in-a-generation shift in priorities with tenants looking for homes with additional space to work from home and either a balcony or garden to enable them to enjoy the outdoors. These properties are high in demand can command higher rents. Now is the time to ensure your garden is well-maintained and that any gardening equipment is in good working order so that your tenants can continue with the upkeep. You could also consider elevating the garden space with nice furniture, lighting and a barbeque to make your property even more appealing to potential renters.

General maintenance

Falling leaves over the winter can cause a build-up of water in your guttering and over time cause water damage or broken gutters. Make sure they are cleared of all debris and ensure your property doesn't have any cracks or holes in the facings or to avoid birds or squirrels nesting. Lastly make sure all of your utilities and any electrical items meet current regulations.

New windows can not only improve the appearance of your property, they also add value, make it more appealing to renters and buyers alike. It will make the property quieter, lower your carbon footprint and improve the energy efficiency - helping your tenants to keep utilities bill down. Choosing new windows and finding a trustworthy company to supply and fit them can be a minefield. The first thing to do is to assess whether you really need new windows or if painting the window frames will suffice.

Wood windows

Do your research into which type of windows are best for your home as this can have a significant effect on the value. If you have an older property such as a tenement flat or listed building, it could be better to buy wood windows. Wood-window manufacturing has come on leaps and bounds in recent years. You can now buy windows made from wood that has been impregnated with preservatives and factory finished to a high standard. This will reduce the maintenance required and prevent water penetration and you will only need to repaint them every eight to 10 years. Find out if the window company is a member of the Wood Window Alliance and choose fully factory-finished wood windows. Good quality wooden windows can be much more aesthetically pleasing and blend in with the style of your property and should last up to 60 years. However, wooden windows are more expensive than their PVC counterparts.

Aluminium windows

If you have a modern contemporary home, you might prefer a more industrial appearance. Aluminium windows are often used on homes built in the 1930s, warehouse conversions and extensions. It’s worth noting that metal frames can be colder than wood or plastic but many providers use a‘ thermal break’, which improves insulation and prevents condensation. It is a very strong material, and the slim frames can maximise the light. You can also have them made in various colours.

PU and PVC windows

This is the most popular and cost-effective choice, and you can choose from various different opening styles and even simulated wooden sash windows. PU and PVC windows cost around 20% less than timber. With so many different options available you can find a style that will perfectly match your property. PVC windows are extremely low maintenance.

Glazing

Choosing the glass is just as important as the frame. There are several types of glass available, and a reputable window company should talk you through the options and the pros and cons of each. As a general guide, the window’s energy rating which must be between A and C to comply with current regulations – more information can be found at the British Fenestration Rating Council. You can choose a glass which has an invisible coating that reflects heat back into the room while letting in free heat from the sun. This is known as passive solar gain. You could also opt for triple glazing – this retains heat better than double glazing. However, this is expensive, and it may not be cost effective when looking at the energy savings. Unless your property is in a conservation area, your windows must be at least double glazed to comply with building regulations. If it is a listed building, there may be exemptions so it’s worth checking with your local council. If your period property isn’t allowed double glazing then consider secondary glazing. This means that an additional pane of glass or polyester film is fitted inside single glazing.