Getting ready to rent out your home can feel a little overwhelming, especially if you have been living in the property yourself. Everyday quirks that you barely notice can become real frustrations for a new tenant. A dripping tap, a garage door that sticks or a cupboard that never closes quite right might seem minor to you, but tenants will expect these things to be fixed before they move in. The better you prepare your rental for tenants, the smoother the tenancy will be and the fewer issues you will face later. This practical guide walks you through the key steps to get your property ready so that it attracts reliable tenants who want to stay long term.
Start with the small fixes that matter most
Before you think about photos, advertising or rental value, walk through your home with fresh eyes. Tenants will not overlook things simply because you did. If anything, their expectations will be higher.
- Make sure simple repairs are handled properly.
- Check that taps are not dripping.
- Ensure all doors and windows open and close smoothly.
- Test the garage door for any sticking or grinding.
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Fix loose handles, broken latches and flickering lights.
These are small tasks, but they set the tone. A well maintained home signals that you care, and tenants usually respond by taking better care of the property themselves.
Cleanliness sets the standard
Landlords and tenants often have very different ideas of what “clean” means. This is why the presentation of the home needs to set the standard from day one. A general tidy up is rarely enough.
- A full professional clean is recommended.
- Professionally clean the carpets or replace them if they are worn out.
- Clean the oven properly, including trays and shelves.
- Wash walls if they are marked or grubby.
- Remove old clutter so the property feels fresh and open.
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Remember to clean your door and window tracks.
A clean, welcoming home attracts better quality applicants and reduces the risk of disputes when the tenancy ends.
Meet all Healthy Homes requirements before the tenant moves in
All rental properties in New Zealand must meet the Healthy Homes Standards. This includes heating, ventilation, moisture control, insulation and drainage. Tenancy Services explains that “all private rentals must comply with the healthy homes standards within specific timeframes”.
The best time to get an assessment is before you move out. You can often resolve issues more easily when you are still in the home. A common mistake is installing a heat pump before knowing what type is required. The assessment will tell you exactly what size and placement is needed. Installing the wrong model can cost you more than doing nothing at all, so always seek advice first.
If you ever feel unsure about what upgrades are worth completing, talk to your property manager before spending money. We often help owners avoid improvements that look appealing but have no impact on the return or compliance.
Freshen the outside as well as the inside
Presentation is not only about the interior. A tidy exterior helps set expectations for the way tenants will treat the outdoor areas.
- Wash the exterior of the house to remove grime and mould.
- Trim gardens and clear paths.
- Clean gutters if they are full.
- Spray for spiders to reduce issues in the first few months of tenancy.
- These steps make the home feel more welcoming and show tenants that the property is cared for.
Why doing this now saves you trouble later
A well prepared rental attracts great tenants. It also reduces repair requests, improves long term care of the home and helps prevent early wear. When a home starts in good condition, tenants are far more likely to maintain it at that level.
How Home Sweet Home can help
Preparing a home for rent does not need to be stressful. Our team can walk through the property with you, point out what needs attention and recommend what can wait. We also help ensure the home meets all compliance requirements and that any upgrades you invest in genuinely support your rental return.
If you want peace of mind and a smooth transition into your next tenancy, we are here to help you prepare your rental for tenants in the most practical and cost effective way.
