Whenever we look for tenants to fit the property, we are not only considering if they can afford the rent or not. We also have to factor in if the tenant is comfortable with the landlord. A good landlord-tenant relationship is a must in this business. Trust and mutual respect are both needed for the partnership to work. If an applicant does not like the landlord right off the bat, they might not push through with renting the property.
During the tenant screening, not only are the tenants under scrutiny, the landlords are as well. The applicants will also evaluate if their property owner is competent and can make their stay as comfortable as possible.
They might find your property listing at Padleads (or the other websites where you syndicated it) the best out there, but the landlord will still become a significant factor. After all, they would have to work with one another for the whole duration of the lease. So what is it about landlords that turn tenants off? Read on to find out what and help a landlord make some changes.
Poor communication skills
We all know that first impressions matter. We always have to make a good first impression because it lasts. The landlord might not have another opportunity to change the applicant’s notion of him. The way a landlord speaks or conveys his message will give the applicant an idea of how he is.
He must make sure that the tone of his messages is respectful and professional. He should also avoid errors in spelling and punctuations, making sure that advertisements are well written.
The way the landlord texts will also affect an applicant’s impression of him. Remind the landlords not to use abbreviations and emojis to keep the conversation formal. If a landlord is on social media and anyone can view his profiles, he must avoid posting offensive photos and comments. He must also never rant about his tenants online.
Bad Attitude
I know changing someone’s attitude is a bit challenging, especially if they refuse to do it. However, bad manners can drive a potential tenant away. One thing that might provoke a landlord to act rudely is when their patience runs out answering all the questions. It is only natural that the applicants will ask, and the landlord has to remember that. He will get asked the same thing over and over again, but that’s just how it is.
Messy Appearance
All tenants want a professional landlord who they can rely on if they encounter problems in the property. One thing that will give them that impression is a landlord’s appearance. I know that we should not judge a book by its cover or that the clothes do not make the man. However, in this case, a landlord’s appearance is a significant factor.
For example, a landlord who dresses too casually (we’re talking flip flops and shorts) might give off a vibe that he is passive and lenient. They might take advantage, thinking that they can bend the rules. I’m not saying that he needs to wear a suit or anything, but nice jeans and shoes will help. Power dressing is a tool that one should take advantage of.
Unfamiliar with punctuality
Some people like to come on time, and I know some try not to arrive late, but they still do. However, a good landlord is always on time. For example, the house tour will start at 9:00 am. The landlord must arrive at least 30 minutes before the applicant does. During this time, he can double-check the property for any problems. He can open the windows to let some air and light inside. It will also give him time to make sure the place is clean.
The tenants should not only like the property, but they should also like and respect the landlord. Landlords should keep in mind that how the tenants think of them will affect their partnership. They should also make an effort.
As a landlord’s rental agent, you should also have these good qualities because you somehow represent the business as well. In fact, in most cases, you will be more visible to the applicants compared to the landlord. In the same way that you want the landlord to create a good impression, you should conduct yourself to your clients professionally as well.