The process of finding a place to rent can be very tedious. It would require potential occupants to put in time and effort to review the details of the units they’re interested in, negotiate with property owners, compare different units, and request repairs. On the other hand, landlords would have to wait in anxious anticipation as their potential clients explore their options from other landlords. But even after all that, a landlord would still have to pass one last hurdle: the final walk-through.
The final walk-through is the last ocular inspection that a client would conduct on the property they want to rent whether it be a house or just a studio apartment. This is a crucial step because its outcome will determine whether or not the landlord would be able to seal the deal with the client.
As the property owner, knowing the usual final walk-through problems clients would most likely see would help you better prepare the unit accordingly to ensure that in the end, you and the client would sign a leasing agreement.
Plumbing Concerns
Plumbing concerns is one of the first things that your potential tenants would first check during the walkthrough. A broken water system would cause them great inconvenience because they use water in their day to day chores. Make sure you contact a plumber to inspect all sinks and toilets in the house for any issues like clogs and leaks.
Heating, Ventilation, and Air conditioning systems
HVAC is another feature that could make or break a deal with future occupants. If they are willing to pay extra for a unit that offers the luxury of indoor comfort, they’d expect to get their money’s worth. That being said, they will surely turn them on during the final walkthrough to see if they work perfectly. Try the systems for yourself beforehand and make sure that they are in great condition.
Electric outlets
Ensure the safety of your tenants by hiring a professional electrician to check that all electric outlets are not broken and won’t cause fire or explosions. Make sure that even the ones in hidden corners or rooms will be inspected.
Creaky doors and hinges
This may sound like a minor concern but if they will see that you overlook problems as small as this, they will doubt your capacity to maintain the entire unit. Also check that you have all the keys and make sure that all doors can be locked and unlocked.
Mold and Pests
Molds and pests can easily pop up anytime in our homes. Mold spread quickly while termites and fleas multiply fast. Check damp and dark areas like sinks or basements for any sign of mold. Then make sure there are no dead bugs, droppings, or small holes that would indicate the presence of pests. Get rid of all infestations before the final walkthrough.
Broken Appliances
Like electric outlets, a broken appliance is also a fire hazard; like HVAC systems, home appliances are also luxuries that make your tenant’s life easier. This is why it’s important that they function properly.
Being prepared for the final walkthrough will not only impress your clients, but will also give you a few advantages as well. First, you would be able to personally document the condition of your unit before your client moves in. This way, you can check for property damages that you can charge your client for, once the contract ends. Secondly, you can save yourself from future complaints or lawsuits if your tenants will encounter accidents due to overlooked safety hazards like faulty wirings and broken appliances. Lastly, you can maintain your credibility as a landlord that provides safe and habitable units to your clients.
After promoting your units on listing management platforms like Padleads.com, you will surely get leads from tenants that are interested to see your units. Keep this final walk-through checklist handy and make sure your units are walkthrough-ready so that you have more chance of sealing a deal in a shorter amount of time.