Getting your property ready to rent

 
01/10/2025

Getting Your Property Ready to Rent: A Landlord’s Guide

Renting out your property can be a great source of income — but to attract the right tenants and maximise your return, preparation is key. At HPS Property Solutions, we work with landlords across Cambridge to ensure their homes are market-ready, compliant, and appealing.

Here’s our step-by-step guide to getting your property ready to rent:

1. Ensure Legal Compliance

Before listing your property, make sure you meet all legal requirements. This includes:

  • EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) – Minimum rating of E.

  • EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) – Valid for 5 years.

  • Gas Safety Certificate – Annual requirement for properties with gas.

  • Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms – Installed and tested.

  • Right to Rent checks – Must be carried out on all tenants.

Tip: As ARLA Propertymark agents, we ensure our landlords meet every compliance standard.

2. Clean & Tidy Throughout

Presentation matters. A clean and well-maintained property attracts better tenants and lets faster. Deep clean carpets, kitchens, and bathrooms. If it’s been empty for a while, freshen it up with a light clean and air the rooms.

3. Make Essential Repairs

Fix anything broken — from leaky taps to squeaky doors. A property in good condition shows tenants that you take their comfort seriously.

Tip: Keep a log of repairs — this also helps with deposit disputes later.

4. Decide on Furnishing

Will you let the property furnished, part-furnished, or unfurnished? Each option attracts a different tenant type. For example, students often expect furniture, while professionals may prefer unfurnished homes.

5. Consider Safety & Durability

If furnishing the property, invest in durable, good-quality items that meet fire safety regulations. Avoid white sofas or easily damaged pieces. Flooring and kitchen worktops should be hard-wearing and easy to maintain.

6. Create a Strong First Impression

Neutral décor, tidy outdoor spaces, and fresh paint where needed all go a long way. Tenants often make decisions within minutes of walking through the door.

7. Inventory & Documentation

A professional inventory protects both you and the tenant. It provides a clear, dated record of the property's condition at move-in and helps avoid disputes when the tenancy ends.

8. Work with a Trusted Letting Agent

At HPS Property Solutions, we market your property professionally, carry out thorough tenant referencing, and offer fully managed or let-only options depending on your needs.

We ensure your tenancy is legally compliant, your rent is collected on time, and your property is well looked after.

Ready to Let?

Whether you’re a new landlord or expanding your portfolio, we’re here to help.

Contact us at www.hpsproperties.co.uk or call 07817 638377 to arrange a free rental valuation.

Let with confidence. Let with HPS Property Solutions.

 
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