Do you have a residential investment property and are in the market for a tenant? Managing an investment property is not a passive investment. While it’s certainly possible to turn the management of the property over to a rental agency, ultimately, as the owner, you are responsible to see that the property is leased to a tenant. Follow these recommendations from the property experts and you’ll soon be on your way to signing a lease.

Many prospective tenants judge a property by the first impression of curb appeal. Address an exterior deferred maintenance issues. Ensure that the landscaping is maintained. Trim shrubs to below window heights and away from walkways and driveways. Update porch light fixtures, house numbers and mailbox as needed. On the interior, paint all of the rooms a neutral shade. Power-clean the bathrooms and kitchen. Steam clean floor and replace carpeting as needed. Shine the windows on the interior and exterior. Address any deferred maintenance issues. All appliances, included the HVAC system, should be serviced and in proper working order.  Take advantage of the great deals offered by Groupon coupons and place a bouquet of flowers from 1800Flowers on the kitchen counter for a welcoming touch.

Now that the property has been prepared for marketing, take multiple photos of the interior and exterior. Select one or more of the many online websites for marketing rental properties. On the narrative section of your listing, be sure to include room count, bathrooms and bedroom. If you have a sketch or outline of the floor plan, include this as well. Neighborhood features, location and school zones should be included in the content section.  Disclose terms of lease, pet policy, rent and any security deposit required. Include a link to the rental application is one is required of prospective tenants. Upload photos of the property and include in the listing. Be prepared to respond quickly to any requests for showing. Prospective tenants often research and visit properties on the same day. A delayed response could mean a missed opportunity to secure a tenant. Best of luck to you!