What makes a potential tenant stop scrolling and book a viewing? It’s not just the number of bedrooms or the location. First impressions matter. A lot.
Before you list your property for rent, take a hard look at its condition. Does it look clean, fresh and well cared for? Or tired and neglected?
Two of the most powerful — yet often overlooked — ways to boost your property’s appeal are:
- Painting the interior and exterior – Norwich Painter Decorator Ltd
- Cleaning the roof – Gentle Roof Cleaning
These simple upgrades don’t just make your home look better. They send a message to tenants: this landlord cares.
Let’s explore why these steps are worth your time and how they can help you attract better tenants, faster.
Why Appearances Matter to Tenants
Would you rent a place that looks like it hasn’t been touched in years?
Most tenants won’t.
Here’s why the visual condition of your property plays such a key role:
- Tenants judge quickly – Within seconds of seeing a property listing, people form opinions.
- A clean, well-maintained home feels safer – Peeling paint or mossy tiles can suggest deeper problems.
- Better looks = higher perceived value – Even without changing the layout or fixtures, a home that looks fresh is seen as more valuable.
According to a 2023 survey by Zoopla, 83% of renters say the general appearance of a home influences their decision to view it. That’s a big number you can’t ignore.
The Power of Paint: A Low-Cost Upgrade with High Impact
When was the last time you repainted the property?
If the walls are scuffed, faded or painted in dated colours, it’s time for a refresh.
What a fresh coat of paint does:
- Brightens the space – Light colours reflect more natural light, making rooms feel bigger and more inviting.
- Covers imperfections – Cracks, marks and stains vanish under a good coat.
- Neutralises the space – Tenants can picture themselves living there when the space feels like a blank canvas.
Tips for painting with purpose:
- Use neutral tones like off-white, light grey or beige. They appeal to more people and feel modern.
- Opt for durable, washable paints, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
- Don’t forget the exterior. Faded paint on doors, window frames or fences can make the whole property look neglected.
Example: A landlord in Manchester spent £500 repainting a two-bed flat. The result? The listing got double the number of enquiries and rented within four days — compared to three weeks the year before.
Roof Cleaning: The Detail That Signals Care
When tenants look at a house, their eyes don’t stop at the ground floor. They scan the whole building — including the roof.
A roof covered in moss, mould or dirt suggests the home hasn’t been cared for. That can raise red flags about possible leaks, insulation issues, or pests.
What roof cleaning can do:
- Removes built-up grime – Moss, algae and stains are not only unsightly but damaging.
- Extends the life of the roof – Keeping tiles clean reduces the risk of cracks and water damage.
- Boosts kerb appeal – The house instantly looks newer and more inviting.
Consider this:
- The cost of professional roof cleaning ranges from £300 to £600, depending on the size and condition.
- That’s a small price to pay compared to the £5,000–£10,000 it could cost to replace a neglected roof.
Data point: Rightmove reports that homes with a well-maintained exterior get 32% more viewing requests than those with visible external wear.
Small Touches, Big Impact
Beyond painting and roof cleaning, think about the little things that complete the picture.
Easy wins before listing your home:
- Wash windows and clean gutters – Sparkling glass makes interiors shine.
- Trim bushes and mow the lawn – A tidy garden sets a positive tone.
- Replace broken lightbulbs or stained carpets – These fixes are cheap but show attention to detail.
Ask yourself:
- Would you want to live here?
- What might put a tenant off during a viewing?
- How does your property compare to similar ones in your area?
The Financial Payoff
You might be wondering — is it worth spending money on these upgrades?
Here’s the reality: good presentation leads to better tenants and faster lettings.
Benefits of a well-presented rental:
- Higher rent – Homes in top condition often command a premium of £50–£150 more per month.
- Lower vacancy rates – Less time sitting empty means more consistent income.
- Longer tenancies – Tenants are more likely to stay in homes they’re proud of.
Example: A landlord in Bristol who spent £1,000 on painting and exterior cleaning saw her flat go from four weeks on the market to just five days. She also negotiated a rent increase of £75/month.
That’s £900 more income in the first year alone, more than covering the upgrade cost.
How to Get Started
Ready to spruce up your rental property? Here’s a simple checklist:
- Inspect the property objectively
- Walk around as if you’re seeing it for the first time.
- Make a list of cosmetic issues.
- Prioritise high-impact areas
- Hallways, kitchens and bathrooms are key.
- Focus on entranceways — first impressions count.
- Get quotes from professionals
- Painters and roof cleaners often offer package deals.
- Book well ahead — spring and summer get busy.
- Budget wisely
- Set aside around 1–2% of the property’s value annually for maintenance and upgrades.
- Track costs — they’re often tax-deductible.
Final Thought: Would You Rent Your Own Property?
If you were looking for a home, would your property stand out?
A home that’s freshly painted and well-maintained tells a story — one of care, value and pride. It helps you attract not just any tenant, but the right one.
And in a competitive rental market, that could make all the difference.
So before you take photos or call an agent, ask yourself:
Is my home ready to impress?
If not, grab a paintbrush and give that roof a proper clean. Your next tenant might be just one refresh away.
