Posts with tag: decor

Would you Use an Interior Design Service for your Rental Property?

Published On: August 21, 2017 at 9:23 am

Renowned firm Alexander James Interiors has launched a brand new interior design service for the private rental sector, named IMPRSS.

Would you Use an Interior Design Service for your Rental Property?

IMPRSS is a dedicated interior design service that caters to the needs of the UK’s rapidly expanding private rental sector and Build to Rent market.

The 2015/16 English Housing Survey revealed that 20% of all households now rent privately, meaning that the private rental sector has doubled in size since the 1980s and 90s, when it accounted for 10% of the population. Renting is particularly prevalent among younger people, with 46% of 25-34-year-olds renting privately – up from 24% just ten years ago.

It was the needs of these young tenants in particular that first gave rise to the idea of a specialist interior design service for the private rental sector.

The Managing Director of Alexander James Interiors, Robert Walker, comments: “We created IMPRSS to service the needs of generation rent. The service designs beautiful, aspirational homes for those who rent privately. We work with housebuilders, developers and corporate landlords to help them shape their properties to the needs and desires of contemporary tenants.”

The rapid growth of the private rental sector and the increase in dedicated Build to Rent developments has led to a gap in the market in terms of interior design – IMPRSS aims to fill that gap. Rental properties require robust furniture and finishings. The IMPRSS team is demonstrating that that doesn’t have to be at the expense of style.

The IMPRSS brochure details five contemporary design options that private landlords can use to ensure that potential tenants are queuing up to live in their properties.

By tapping into the aspirations of generation rent, the interior design service enables landlords to maximise rents while minimising void periods. By seeking out low maintenance furnishings that are durable, IMPRSS also ensures that upkeep costs are kept to a minimum.

Walker adds: “The growth of the private rental sector in the UK has created a unique opportunity for landlords. We are working to help them stay ahead of the competition. An outstanding show home can work wonders when it comes to signing tenants up to a new property. It can make those viewing it feel right at home as though they belong, the moment they step through the door. Many tenants then want to see precisely that standard of décor in the apartments that they rent. That’s what we’re working with builders and developers to deliver.”

The IMPRSS service is available to private rental sector property holders across the UK. As well as furnishing private rental sector homes, IMPRSS offers a range of bold-on options, in order to deliver a full service. These include electrical goods, kitchenware, pictures and mirrors, soft furnishings (towels and linen), and accessories.

Do you like the sound of a dedicated interior design service?

Should You Let Tenants Decorate?

Published On: August 17, 2017 at 8:12 am

Author: Em Morley

Categories: Landlord News

Tags: decor,decorating,interiors,tenants

The question of letting a tenant decorate their rental property can be a dilemma for landlords. On the one hand, you want them to feel at home and personalise the property in the hope they’ll stay longer and look after the condition. But, on the other hand, you don’t want to be stuck trying to re-let a property that has been decorated with questionable taste! We asked Upad landlords if they let their tenants decorate a property; this is what they had to say:

Should You Let Tenants Decorate?

“I would as long as there were no material changes to the property. I think it shows commitment on the part of the tenants and that they have pride in the property.”

“We once had a tenant and when she left, we saw the bedroom ceiling painted in a mish mash of blue and white. Then we realised when you lay on the bed she had painted clouds crossing a blue sky! We allow tenants to spruce up decor but now agree colour schemes beforehand.”

“Of course! If they make it their home, they will probably stay longer and have a better relationship with you. Although, make sure they let you know what colour they are going to paint it beforehand, make sure it’s all in keeping! And make sure they are using a professional, if it’s not good their deposit will be paying to rectify it!”

“Yes, because it will make them feel more at home and they’ll probably stay longer, but put some restrictions in e.g. no black walls. And if they don’t do it to a reasonable standard, you reserve the right to get professionals in when they leave to redecorate at their expense.”

“A resounding no. I had a tenant a few years ago who pleaded to personalise the house she lived in. She assured me the colour scheme would be tasteful. When she left I could not believe it! The palisaded Victorian semi had deep purple original coving; the dado rails and skirting boards, which were previously stripped and waxed, were white glossed and had smatterings of purple emulsion on them. I was horrified, that work had taken so long to do and the man-hours involved originally outweighed any deposit, but after all said and done, I had agreed. Never again.”

“We always allow tenants to redecorate. It is their home after all and we’ve found that tenants who decorate often look after the property and are better payers than others. They also tend to stay longer and that gives us greater continuity and fewer voids. We do prefer it if tenants decorate with pastel shades and paint rather than wallpaper because it’s easier to cover up when they leave, but we don’t really mind. We always freshly paint properties in magnolia, with white woodwork, ready for new tenants to move into.”

The overwhelming majority of landlords surveyed said they do let tenants decorate a property, but protect yourself with these top tips:

Agree on the type of colour paint if you want it to be in keeping with the rest of the property. If this isn’t an issue for you, ask for the walls to be painted back to the original colour, or a neutral colour, before they leave. And make it clear that if it’s not returned as such, you will need to deduct the cost from their deposit.
Make sure it’s written in the tenancy agreement, particularly if you’ve agreed a certain colour or paint type. If they do return the property with a bright green living room, you need written evidence to prove this wasn’t agreed. If you’ve agreed a décor change during the tenancy, create a signed addendum to the original agreement.
Make sure you have a thorough inventory before they move in, as this will document any changes when they subsequently move out and will back up anything you’ve agreed in the tenancy agreement or addendum.
Make it a condition that they use a professional to do the painting. A bad paint job will be time-consuming to rectify.
Wait until the tenancy has reached six months and you are confident the tenants will be staying. Again, make sure anything agreed has been written and signed by both parties.
Work with your tenant, agree as long as you buy the paint and brushes to ensure it will be a quality job. Help them pick the paint colours, or offer a range that you would be comfortable with but they still have the choice.

Landlords, Which Renovation Projects are Most Profitable?

Published On: July 26, 2017 at 8:07 am

Author: Em Morley

Categories: Landlord News

Tags: decor,home improvements,interior design,renovation

When it comes to renovation projects, sometimes it takes money to make money – that’s the finding of the latest research by Towergate Insurance.

Landlords are often looking at ways that they can increase the value of their properties, either to command a higher monthly rent and therefore earn stronger rental yields, or sell the asset for a better price, which will improve capital gains.

Towergate has analysed some common renovation projects to find out which will add the most value to your property, without breaking the bank in the first place.

However, its research has indicated that sometimes it is worth putting a larger sum behind a renovation project to reap the rewards.

We used the current average house price of £220,700 (taken from the latest Office for National Statistics/Land Registry index) to calculate how much some popular renovation projects would cost on this property, how much they would increase the value of the home and the estimated profit on each.

If you would like to put in the value of your own properties, simply use the tool here: https://www.towergateinsurance.co.uk/landlord-insurance/most-profitable-home-renovations

Landlords, Which Renovation Projects are Most Profitable?

On the typical UK property, the cheapest renovation project is to transform a space into open plan living, which costs an average of £2,100. However, if you’re looking to opt for this feature (something that may appeal to many modern tenants), you’ll be pleased to know that it’s not bottom of the list for profit and increase in value.

It’s actually decking that will deliver the lowest increase in value to your property, at just 2% (or £4,414 on an average home). In addition, the profit on this renovation project is just £2,239, following a £2,175 initial outlay.

The most expensive project on the list is a single storey extension, which would cost a huge £20,000 on the average home. But is this worth it? It appears not, as you’ll only receive a £4,277 profit from this job.

So, what is the most lucrative investment? It turns out that adding a garage will deliver the highest estimated increase in value – a solid 20% (or £44,140)- and the greatest estimated profit – an impressive £28,690.

Other ideas on the list include outside décor, a conservatory and a loft – find out which will be the most profitable on your property and happy renovating!

The Front Door Colours Most Likely to get your Property Sold/Let

Published On: July 3, 2017 at 8:08 am

Author: Em Morley

Categories: Property News

Tags: decor,front door,kerb appeal,letting a property,property maintenance

Something as simple as painting your front door can have a huge impact on how easy it is to sell/let your property. So which front door colours should you choose?

Landlords looking to get their property let quickly and for a good rent price can also use the tricks used by estate agents to sell a house, which will boost rental yields.

The Front Door Colours Most Likely to get your Property Sold/Let

Aside from figuring out your finances, de-cluttering the home and being competitive with rents, there’s one thing that could help you shift your property more quickly and get you a higher offer from tenants.

Most homebuyers/tenants form their first impression of a property within seconds, so kerb appeal is vital when trying to get your property let. According to a band of estate agents, the right front door colours could make all the difference.

Property expert Sarah Beeny explains: “Front doors are the first thing potential buyers see and first impressions really do count, so I’m a huge advocate of making them look brilliant when preparing a home for sale.

“In terms of on-trend colours, there’s two routes – bright or muted. Bright yellow, pink and turquoise are all huge at the moment, and can really transform a property from drab to fab, giving it the wow factor buyers look for.”

She adds: “Then there’s the more traditional, muted colours which are really popular, including deep blue, dark grey and sage green. These colours are timeless and create an impression of grandeur, which buyers love.”

However, some of the nation’s most respected agents believe there’s more to it than just picking a colour.

Country Life reports that the shade that will sell/let your property is completely dependent on where it’s located.

For those that live in country villages, they advise avoiding paint altogether. Instead, the experts suggest a slick of varnish on bare wood, to complement the natural environment.

Or, if your home is by the sea, choosing a colour that matches the ocean will fare best.

Likewise, those who live in the chilly north or inner city Victorian terraces can be bolder with their choices, as creating a cheery entrance is key.

“Extreme colours only work for the few; orange, lime green and pink are all out there, but are not likely to have a broad appeal,” says the Head of Savills’ Country Department, Lindsay Cuthill.

That being said, whatever shade you decide on, revamping your front door colours can make your properties irresistible to potential tenants.

Cuthill adds: “If you want to get the maximum price for your home, it’s time to get the paintbrushes out and make your front door a real centerpiece that buyers will love.”

Create a Glorious Garden Party with these Top Tips

Published On: April 24, 2017 at 8:14 am

Author: Em Morley

Categories: Property News

Tags: decor,gardening,gardens,interiors,property maintenance,spring

Spring is in the air and National Gardening Month is officially upon us. To help get your gardens ready for the summer, these top tips will help you create a glorious garden party for May Day and beyond…

Create a Glorious Garden Party with these Top Tips

If you plan to host a garden party with your friends this spring/summer, it’s time to get your outside space in order. These tips will also be handy for those trying to let/sell their properties at this time of year, as they’ll help your garden stand out from the crowd:

Bring the outside in

In terms of interior design, the lines between outdoor and indoor space are becoming more and more blurred. To really make the garden feel like an extension of your property, select elegant outdoor furniture that wouldn’t look out of place inside the home. If your property benefits from patio doors, leave them open during your garden party to allow the guests to spill from the outside in.

Follow fashion

Colour blocking has long been a fashionable trend, so it’s no surprise that it’s entering the garden world. To get the trend right, look at a colour wheel and pick two to four contrasting colours. Mix and match these shades in your outdoor furniture, accessories and plants to radically update your garden décor.

Flower power

No matter how big or small your outdoor space, adding flowers in pots or beds will bring your garden to life and provide a talking point for your summer garden party. For those seeking low maintenance florals, plant daffodils, tulips and crocus. These delicate flowers come in a range of colours, and are able to withstand the chilly spring weather and shade.

Light it up

Under-lighting is a huge trend in interior design, as is sustainability. Bring these two trends together to create the ultimate evening ambiance. Place solar under-lights within flowerbeds to create a magical atmosphere. If your property boasts a pool or pond, put rechargeable floating solar lights in the water, which will create a subtle but effective setting.

We hope these tips encourage you to get outside and spruce up your space or throw a perfect garden party this spring!

Top Tips to Choosing the Right Flooring for your Rental Property

Published On: March 29, 2017 at 9:38 am

Author: Em Morley

Categories: Landlord News

Tags: decor,flooring,interior design,rental property

Flooring can have a huge impact on first impressions of a rental property, so it’s vital that landlords get it right when replacing the flooring.

Portico has put together some top tips on choosing the right flooring for your rental property:

Consider the property’s use

Top Tips to Choosing the Right Flooring for your Rental Property

The first step to choosing the right flooring is to consider who will be living in your property. If your target tenant type is families, for example, you should avoid flooring that can’t be easily refinished, or could be ruined by a loose crayon or dirty fingers. Portico recommends vinyl or laminate flooring for high-traffic areas, as these flooring types can withstand heavy foot traffic much better than most others. You could also opt for non-slip wood-effect tiles, which are easily maintained, stylish and affordable.

If you have fewer tenants living in your property, you have greater freedom with the flooring, so you could consider more stylish choices of tile, as they’re less likely to be damaged and can improve the property’s appearance.

Think room-by-room

Certain flooring types are best matched to particular rooms so, when changing flooring for an entire property, you should think on a room-by-room basis. When it comes to kitchens, bear in mind the type of material that is easiest to clean and won’t need to be replaced every time you get a new tenant.

Natural stone floor tiles look great in kitchens and will also give tenants a blank canvas when it comes to matching the appliances and room décor. There is also a range of designs and colours to choose from, which gives you the chance to build up the room’s style from the ground up. Tiles are also the obvious choice for bathrooms, as they’re waterproof, durable and easy to maintain.

If you’re avoiding carpets in a bid to avoid having to replace flooring too regularly, bedrooms will benefit from engineered or hardwood flooring for extra warmth and homely comfort. Living rooms are very much dependant on tenant type, as properties with more people will require more durable flooring, so Portico suggests hardwood flooring, as it won’t need to be updated every time your property is up for let.

Avoid the obvious pitfalls

Certain flooring types are a definite no-no, with 14% of tenants saying that carpet in the bathroom would instantly put them off a property. Other pitfalls include installing wooden flooring in wet rooms, light coloured carpets in hallways, or installing the flooring yourself without experience or guidance. All of these mistakes can cost you time, money and tenants, so make sure that you consider all potential pitfalls before rushing into buying your flooring.

With flooring playing such an important role when it comes to property viewings, it pays to make sure the flooring types you choose are well suited to your rental property.

Follow these top tips and build your property appeal from the bottom up!