As summer winds down and the air gets a bit crisper, there's no excuse for overlooking your investment property's management.
You always want your investment property to attract as much interest as possible and the change of season offers a good opportunity to make this happen. If you're in between tenancies or just looking to make some improvements, here are some things to think about.
Gutter time
Make sure all the guttering, pipes and downspouts on your property are up to scratch. Faulty pipes can cause water damage to your property's exterior, so check for rust and corrosion, and clear out any built-up debris. Cooler weather brings rain, so inspect the roof for any weak spots or leaks that could create problems in the long-run. You want to avoid any issues that could discourage tenants. Ask us for a condition report and specifically ask that the condition of your guttering is checked.
Seal it up
A warm, dry and healthy house will appeal to all tenants. Mould and dampness are not easy to get rid of, once established, and they’re one of the most common causes of problems between tenants and landlords. So, prevent these problems before they start. Ask us to check external doors and windows for gaps, cracks or faulty locks.
Safety check
Heaters and fireplaces are fire hazards during the cold months, so inspections are important. Property managers typically check smoke detectors as part of their condition reporting regimes as well, but if you’re self-managing, you need to make sure your property’s smoke detectors are working and properly positioned.
Clean
Why wait until spring to clean up your rental property? Gardens can become tatty during the cooler seasons, so prepare the greenery by weeding and replenishing the garden beds. A property with a lovingly tended garden will almost certainly attract a tenant that appreciates your efforts and will follow your example.
Tax Tips
As we head into autumn, the end of financial year isn’t far off either. That means it’s time to think about the other things you could be doing to maximise your rental property’s yield before you lodge this year’s tax return.
Tax experts recommend that rental property owners obtain a Tax Depreciation Report before end of financial year. For an investment of a few hundred dollars, you can potentially add thousands of dollars to your annual return. We recommend BMT Tax Depreciation.