The move-in process is an important part of your tenancy, and many landlords don’t pay enough attention to the early days of the leasing process. Once you have a tenant approved and you’ve collected the security deposit, the first month’s rent, and any other move-in funds, you can start preparing to turn the keys over to your tenant. Just make sure you have documented the home’s condition thoroughly and that you’re providing a welcoming and inviting place for your new tenants to call home.
Today, we’re sharing some of the best practices you should include with your move-in process.
1. Make the Move Easy on Your Tenants
Moving is stressful for everyone, and your tenants are probably feeling hassled with all the packing they’ve had to do and the unpacking that waits for them. They’re going to need you to make the move-in process as seamless as possible. This is the property you own, but remember that it’s going to be your tenant’s home. Help them create an emotional attachment to it, because that will ensure they take good care of it. Your job is to make sure it’s safe, habitable, and rent ready.
2. Preparations a Few Days before Move-In
There are a few steps you should take before the move-in occurs to make the process a smooth transition. First, you will want to prep the home and address any last minute maintenance items. The rental property should look new and be free of any problems. You don’t want your new tenants to have to deal with anything unpleasant on move-in day. If they move into your property and the stove isn’t working or the windows don’t lock, the tenancy is going to start off on the wrong foot. Once you know that everything is in good repair and working, you will want to schedule a deep and professional cleaning of the property. This is absolutely necessary because you do not want to move your new tenants into a dirty home. No one wants to live with someone else’s dirt. Not only is a clean property better for your tenants, it also shows them how you expect the home to look when they move out.
3. Conduct a Thorough Move-In Inspection
You will definitely want to make sure to complete your detailed move-in inspection. This should entail a list of all areas of the home for your tenants to survey upon move-in. You can allow them to make notes about anything that seems out of place, looks damaged, or is broken. It’s not fair to hold them accountable for damage that was there before they moved in. We recommend you do this 12-24 hours prior to move-in. After that, you can hand over the keys to your tenant along with the tenant handbook.
The tenant handbook should include information such as how to submit a work order should any maintenance issues arise and how to pay rent on time every month. You want them to understand your expectations.
Finally, we think it’s a nice touch to provide your new tenants with a welcome basket. This can go a long way in establishing a professional, respectful, and productive relationship.
Should I use an Orlando Property Manager?
An Orlando property management company will handle everything you need to move a new tenant into your Orlando rental property. Property managers will conduct property marketing, tenant screening, and rent-ready repairs.
Property Management Summary in Orlando, Florida
Having the proper process to move your new tenants into your Orlando rental home is important and can create a first impression that leads to a long and successful tenancy.
We would love to be a resource to you and help in any way we can with any of your rental properties. If you have any questions about professional Orlando property management, please feel free to contact us at The Listing Real Estate Management.
