Indianapolis tenants have grown more sophisticated over the years. Thanks to technology and an abundance of information being available to anyone searching for it, they’re more educated about what they’re looking for in a home.
If you’re renting out a single-family property in Indianapolis, you need to think like a tenant. There’s a lot of competition, and you want to make sure your property stands out.
We’ve been leasing, managing, and maintaining Indianapolis rental homes for years, and here are five of the most important things that tenants are looking for when they’re shopping for a single-family rental.
1. An Excellent Location and Neighborhood
Tenants looking for single-family homes are often looking for established neighborhoods. They want to be in good school districts, they want wide streets and sidewalks, and they want proximity to grocery stores, retailers, restaurants, entertainment, and recreation. Homes that are more remote will take a longer time to rent. HOA neighborhoods are growing in popularity among tenants because they like the amenities that are typically provided. Sometimes there’s a pool or a fitness center.
2. Privacy and Space
Residents choose single-family homes over attached homes or apartments because they want a little extra privacy and a lot of extra space. You’ll find that tenants who want single-family homes are often going to take care of the place as if it’s their own. They’ll have enough pride of ownership to weed the flower beds and even shovel snow. With this in mind, tenants will look for a yard, preferably a fenced yard where children and pets can run around safely.
3. Modern Upgrades and Accessibility
Today’s tenants will want energy efficiency, smart home technology, and modern living. Make sure your single-family Indianapolis rental home can meet those demands. Don’t let your appliances begin to get old and deteriorated. Replace them with sleek, new systems that are environmentally friendly and longer lasting. Pull up old carpet and install hard surface flooring, which is easier to maintain. Security features like video doorbells and alarm systems are popular. Make sure tenants will have an easy time installing them.
4. Curb Appeal and Landscaping
Single-family homes need to look inviting and welcoming. When you’re showing your property, make sure you appeal to your tenant’s emotional senses. Make sure the lawn is cut and the bushes are trimmed back from the property. Sweep or power wash the driveway and the steps so there aren’t any branches, leaves, or debris to step over. Take a look at the property from the street. Make sure there aren’t any broken blinds in the windows or cobwebs surrounding the entryway. Putting a little attention into your tenant’s first impression will go a long way.
5. Tenants Want Value
Pay attention to your pricing. While most tenants understand that they’ll be paying more for a single-family home than they would for an apartment in a cramped building, they aren’t going to overpay. Conduct a thorough market analysis before you price your Indianapolis rental home.
A professionally managed home will help you retain your best tenants. If you’d like to talk about how to attract the best possible renters, please contact us at Red Door Property Management. We’d be happy to serve as your Indianapolis property management resource.
