Window coverings in your Natick area single family rental property are a smart optional provision on your part. Are you obligated to provide window coverings, such as drapes, shades, and blinds, for a single family rental? The answer is no. But it would serve you well to do so for the following reasons:
- Fill Vacancies Faster
Your potential residents may wrongly believe that it’s the property owner’s obligation to provide window coverings and would be less likely to rent a space that doesn’t have them. They may not tell you outright that this is their reason for not choosing to rental your property, but it is affecting their overall impression of the space. They are looking for the privacy that window coverings give. And they will avoid paying for them, since window coverings are an item that they do not believe is their obligation. They view them as as a temporary expense that they would not be able to reuse in their future dwellings since windows are different shapes and sizes.
- Avoid Poor Taste Choices Tenants May Make
In their quest for privacy or room darkening, your tenants just might choose to tape a blank sheet haphazardly, or even bright fluorescent pink blinds with sparkles. And if your residence is in an HOA, your tenants may hang something that violates Association guidelines. You, as the property owner, could be fined, and it would be your responsibility to pay – not the resident’s. If you do not provide window coverings, you will need to establish clear guidelines, and then realize that enforcement will be time consuming.
- Attract Higher-Quality Residents
Practical window coverings will attract higher-quality tenants. Your property will show that you care about your tenants’ comfort and they in turn will take greater care of your property. Tenants who appreciate this extra measure will most probably also be the type of tenants who pay their rent on time, which is no small factor, as you well know.
Once you are committed to providing window coverings, shop and install wisely. Here are some tips for purchasing the right window coverings for your single family rental home:
- Shop Sales
Check out what’s available in the industry for wholesale pricing and shop the retail market for deep discounts.
- Don’t Take the Cheap Route
Choose coverings that are sturdy and mechanically sound. Repairs can be costly.
- Maintenance Checks Save you Money
Once you have installed window coverings, ensure that each move in and move out, as well as your regular evaluations, include checking the condition of the window coverings as this can help to avoid bigger problems in the future. In many states, window coverings are considered to be the personal property of the landlord and must be kept in good repair.
- Blinds or Drapes?
Blinds can be wiped down, but they can break. Cords are unacceptable for families with children. Fabric can absorb smoke, pet and cooking smells. Your choice depends on your ability to check on how they are being treated and how able you will be to make necessary repairs.
- Partner with a Real Property Management office
Real Property Management Metro Boston can professionally manage these needs plus more. We do thorough move in/move out evaluations, as well as twice yearly evaluations that not only check the physical aspects of your investment property, but also ensure that the resident is complying with aspects of the lease such as no smoking, no pets, and other lease requirements. This saves you time, hassle, and money.
Would you like to learn more about our property management services? Please contact us!
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