Would my property let better if it was furnished or unfurnished?
Source: J. Daines – LettingaProperty.com
In my experience, it is like asking, would the tenants prefer a magnolia finish or a bright bit of splash throughout the house – The answer is … different strokes for different folks.
It all depends on the type of tenant and property that you have.
If you are letting a student property, chances are that the students won’t have accumulated any furniture during their lives at home and so it would make sense for the property to have the bare essentials such as desks, chairs, sofas, bed frames, cooker, oven, fridge freezer etc. (Remember, any furnishings must comply with fire safety regulations and any gas appliances will need to be tested by a Corgi plumber)
If you are letting a big 5 bedroom mansion in the heart of West Sussex, you may be attracting families in between houses that have accumulated furniture throughout their lives.
All I would say on this point is:
1. Know your target market, are they going to be corporate tenants or families with a need for furniture. Are you targeting students or young professionals?
2. Be flexible. If I had a good quality tenant that was paying three years rent upfront and they needed a sofa – I would accommodate.
3. Know the Law Regarding Fire Safety
Remember, if all else fails, IKEA is always close at hand!
