When it comes to renting out a property, viewings are an essential part of the process. It’s the time when potential tenants get to see the property and decide whether it’s the right fit for them. While some landlords prefer to hire an estate agent to conduct viewings, others prefer to do it themselves. Doing viewings yourself can be a cost-effective option, but it’s important to be aware of what to avoid. In this guide, we’ll provide you with a landlord’s guide to what to avoid when doing viewings yourself.

1. Being Unprepared

One of the biggest mistakes landlords make when doing viewings themselves is not being prepared. It’s important to have a clear understanding of the property and be able to answer any questions the potential tenants may have. This includes knowing the property’s features, such as the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and parking spaces. You should also be aware of any potential issues, such as damp or noisy neighbours.

2. Overselling the Property

While it’s important to showcase the property’s best features, overselling it can lead to disappointment and frustration for potential tenants. It’s important to be honest about any potential drawbacks or issues with the property. This helps to build trust and ensure that the tenants you select are the right fit for the property.

Free Landlord Resources

3. Failing to Set Expectations

When conducting viewings, it’s important to set clear expectations for potential tenants. This includes outlining the rental price, deposit, and any other costs associated with the property. It’s also important to explain the rental application process and any requirements for references or credit checks. Setting expectations early on can help to avoid confusion and misunderstandings down the line.

4. Not Screening Potential Tenants

One of the biggest risks of doing viewings yourself is not properly screening potential tenants. It’s important to ask questions about their employment status, income, and rental history. You should also conduct reference and credit checks to ensure that they are a reliable and trustworthy tenant. Failing to screen potential tenants can lead to problems down the line, such as missed rent payments or damage to the property.

5. Being Inflexible

When conducting viewings, it’s important to be flexible and accommodating to potential tenants’ schedules. This includes offering viewings outside of traditional business hours or on weekends. Being inflexible can result in missed opportunities to find the right tenant for your property.

Tips for a Successful Viewing Experience

1. Prepare the Property

Before conducting any viewings, it’s important to prepare the property. This includes cleaning and decluttering the space, making any necessary repairs, and ensuring that the property is well-lit and smells fresh. This helps to create a positive first impression and makes it easier for potential tenants to envision themselves living in the space.

2. Dress Professionally

As a landlord, it’s important to present yourself in a professional manner. This means dressing appropriately for the viewing, whether that means business attire or smart casual. This helps to build trust and establish a positive relationship with potential tenants.

3. Be Friendly and Approachable

When conducting viewings, it’s important to be friendly and approachable. Greet potential tenants with a smile and introduce yourself. This helps to create a welcoming atmosphere and makes it easier for tenants to ask questions and feel comfortable in the space.

4. Highlight the Property’s Best Features

While it’s important to be honest about any potential drawbacks, it’s equally important to highlight the property’s best features. This includes things like natural light, storage space, and outdoor areas. By showcasing the property’s best features, you can help potential tenants to envision themselves living in the space and increase their interest in the property.

5. Follow Up Promptly

After the viewing, it’s important to follow up promptly with potential tenants. This can be as simple as sending a thank you email or text message. Following up shows that you are interested in their tenancy and can help to build trust and establish a positive relationship.

Conclusion

After the viewing, it’s important to follow up promptly with potential tenants. This can be as simple as sending a thank you email or text message. Following up shows that you are interested in their tenancy and can help to build trust and establish a positive relationship.

Free Landlord Resources