In the rental business industry, finding high-quality tenants is one of the top objectives. For this reason, you want to keep them loyal to your property.
Good tenants are prompt in paying rental dues. They strive to contribute to the harmony in the property and neighborhood. Damages are also minimal since they conduct their tenant duties well. For this reason, you want to keep these types of tenants happy to prevent them from leaving.
Check out some of these tips on how to inspire happiness in your tenants:
1. Always prioritize repairs and maintenance.
Who wants to live in a rental unit with a clogged toilet? Who wants to spend a rainy day indoors under a leaking roof. No one. Therefore, when there are problems that you need to address, focus on resolving them.
Renters are happy when living in a safe and habitable space. They don’t want to spend precious time reporting various property concerns. They’d prefer not to deal with stressful inconveniences, whether minor or significant. Without them, tenants can spend time in their homes while in a relaxed mood.
2. Be reachable when a tenant contacts you.
An absentee landlord makes life incredibly stressful for tenants when they need to get in contact with you as soon as possible. One of the many responsibilities of your position is to be accessible to your renters. So, declare certain business days during which you’ll be available to answer their calls.
Tenants will be glad to have landlords that they can easily contact. Waiting for a response will make tenants anxious. When the concern is urgent, tenants want to feel relieved that the landlord is aware of the problems. Action is expected in some cases, and this requires landlords to be present and within reach.
3. Follow the State law regarding tenant’s privacy.
There are many violations a landlord may commit while doing their job. Hovering over tenants or constantly monitoring their every move goes against tenant’s privacy laws, and their peace and quiet. Additionally, so are unannounced property inspections. Make sure to schedule your visits ahead of time and provide reasonable notice of at least 24 hours.
Renters will appreciate that you value their privacy. They do understand that inspections should be performed to keep up with property maintenance. However, they’ll feel much more respected when enough notice has been provided. This way, they can rearrange their schedule to be present at the time of the inspection.
4. Prioritize the tenant’s safety.
If a property lacks security measures, tenants will undoubtedly feel unsafe in their homes. To protect your renters, invest in security camera equipment. Moreover, purchase solid door and window locks. Your property should discourage burglars from breaking and entering.
Tenants will feel relieved and happy to live in a well-secured area. When CCTVs are present, they can breathe easy knowing that there’s a way to track and identify anyone with ill intentions. Even if the rent is cheap, it’s scary to be a victim of a petty crime. Further, having a good security system means tenants can go home late without fear.
5. Treat your tenants respectfully and professionally.
A landlord who is difficult to deal with will put any tenant at unease. When interacting with your tenants, practice tact and treat everyone fairly. Be flexible and approachable without being overbearing. Lastly, dress acceptably and be considerate.
Renters are happier when they get along well with their landlord. They’re not looking for you to be overly friendly and go out drinking with them. Instead, they want someone reasonable, firm and respectful. Retain boundaries without being overly strict and protect each tenant’s privacy.
6. Make your rental unit pet-friendly.
Does the rental have too many restrictions, such as disallowing pets? Does the property have the perfect location and amenities, but no pets are permitted? Being unwelcoming of any pets can make your prospects narrower.
Pets naturally make tenants happier. So, by being a pet-friendly rental space, you automatically add joy to your customers. Opening your property to pets might be challenging.
However, with the right measures, you can protect the value of your home. You can add pet addendums to detail your requirements and restrictions according to the type, size and breed of the pets. Most tenants who own pets also stay longer, being a significant incentive.
7. Appreciate your tenants.
Are your tenants responsible and dependable? Do they avoid violations and consistently adhere to your property policies? If yes, consider giving recognition and appreciation.
Make your renters happy by letting them know you value their presence and loyalty. You can give out gift cards, meal coupons and even holiday cards. This effort goes a long way in cultivating a good landlord-tenant relationship. Some landlords will even offer rental discounts after a tenant renews.
8. Listen to your tenants when they have complaints and concerns.
Do your tenants trust your judgment during conflicts and report their concerns to you? As a landlord, you must communicate well with your renters. Practice active listening and avoid dismissing complaints you consider as minor. What’s minor for you may be a big deal to the tenant reporting the concern.
Ask for further information so that you can better respond to your renters’ needs and resolve issues promptly. Tenants are likely to be happier when they know that you pay attention to their requests. If something is within your capacity to grant and it’s reasonable, then being flexible is a good idea.
Bottom Line
Keeping renters happy requires you to pay attention to the details. Take care of the property, be responsive, and show respect at all times to help with tenant retention rates. Generate a long-term vision of cultivating loyalty from your tenants. Serve their needs well, and you’ll end up a happy landlord in the process.
If you need an experienced and dedicated property manager, contact T-Square Real Estate Services at (425) 485- 1800 or visit our website.