Knowing that your property fundamentally needs a bit of an aesthetic overhaul can be a gut-wrenching moment, particularly where money is concerned. Totalling up the numbers for brand-new furniture, a new bathroom suite, and moderndéc or can come to an eye-watering total, especially if you’re a new landlord who is looking to make a profit, or at the very least your money back. So, that begs the question: what can be achievedon the cheap?
Create useful storage
Tenants love places to put books, clothes and other items that they might want to keep out of sight. Putting up shelves is one of the easiest things you can do (depending on the type of shelf),and it will have instant appeal, especially in shared accommodation where students and young people will want places to store books and personal belongings. Even if you don’t consider yourself to be the best DIY master, there are plenty of surprising ways to create storage in a room, even trendy hexagonal shelves that are made from Popsicle sticks!
Don’t underestimate the power of paint
If you’re looking to create a hugely different look in each room, then one of the easiest ways to do this is by giving them a new coat of paint. Altering the colouror adding a feature wall can add a unique feel to each room that can be achievedat a fraction ofthe price of buying brand new furniture for every room.
Learn how to do basic plumbing
If your tenants are complaining of radiators that aren’t heating up or a toilet that is blocked, then hiring a plumber to come out and fix it can add to any other costs that you are currently incurring. Even if you feel that learning how to fix a leaky tap is entirely out of your capabilities, understanding the fundamental principles is still surprisingly easy. If you do have to call in an expert, you will at least know that you possess the skills to save some money in the future. In the meantime, taking out landlord insurance from a landlord insurance company will protect any accidental damage from plumbing hiccups.
Re-varnish all wood
In the same vein as a lick of paint giving a home a completelynew appearance, re-doing all wooden surfaces also brings the interior up to date. Stained, splintered and scuffed wood can make a property look unkempt and a little worn out. While the process of sanding, staining and varnishing might seem a bit arduous, it will make old dining tables, bannisters and chairs look brand new and maybe even a bit pricey.
Taking some time in the evenings to pick up a new DIY skill might justsave you a lot of money in the long-run. It will also make you a go-to source for tenants who are experiencing any technical problems, which will only spread the good news about you being a reliable landlord. Whether you invest in a few cans of pain or learn how to adjust a spirit level, you could be the resident handy-person as well as a landlord or lady.