Commonly associated with preparing a home for sale, property staging is all about highlighting the best features of a property in order to boost its appeal to potential buyers. In contrast, property styling is the creative aspect of this process: working with the existing furniture, artwork and other items to bring a cohesive look together to help boost the property’s sale appeal.
Property styling for rentals
For landlords, this second aspect is especially relevant. Here, a property stylist will work with the existing property and (if furnished) its contents in order to increase the chance of a quick and profitable rental while minimising expense. Overall, the aim is to enhance the best features of the property and to create a welcoming ambiance that will ensure your property stands out from the rest while attracting more potential tenants.
Knowing your market vs. broad appeal
When it comes to styling a property (whether for sale or for rent), the general consensus is that in order to cast a wider net, it’s important to style it in a way that is likely to appeal to the greatest number of potential tenants.
In general terms, this relates to aspects such as a neutral colour scheme or simple furnishings, but at the same time, considering your market is key, whether you’re catering to young urban professionals, growing families or retirees.
Keep it bright and light
One of the biggest selling points for buyers or tenants is the amount of natural light in the property. Dark, dingy spaces are not just off-putting; they’re also difficult to photograph, reducing your chances of success in online property listings.
Ideally, properties with plenty of natural light tend to have features such as large windows and south-facing gardens, but if you need to maximise the amount of light in your space, make use of light, neutral decor, and warm electrical lighting to brighten the rooms in your property.
Kitchens and bathrooms
Out of all the rooms in the property, bathrooms and kitchens tend to be the ones people gravitate to the most. While a clean, well-kept bathroom is a must, the kitchen also tends to act as a multifunctional area where they spend a lot of their time cooking, socialising and working. For both rooms, checking or updating appliances is essential. Once you have the functional elements in place, working on decor such as backsplashes and tiling will help add rental appeal.
Finishing touches
While it’s important to keep the overall look of your rental property relatively simple, a few decorative details like soft furnishings, rugs and throws can offer a cosy inviting feel. Similarly, don’t forget that first impressions matter – and for potential tenants, the hallway is their introduction to the property. A fresh coat of paint on the front door and potted plants or cut flowers in the hallway can make a big difference.
Consider your gardens
Even if the inside of your property looks presentable, a neglected or unkempt garden can spoil the overall experience of viewing a rental property and reduce your chances of success. Tenants are likely to appreciate a garden that requires minimal upkeep while still looking beautiful. Low-maintenance, hardy plants and minimising lawn upkeep through using patios or decks can be an effective way to achieve a green, peaceful space without the fuss.
