Regular, Positive Communication
When it comes to tenant retention, nothing is more important than good communication. Industry professionals know that communicating regularly and effectively with a tenant can make a significant difference in tenant retention. Figure out how a tenant prefers such interactions to take place (email, phone calls, or another method) and then use that preference. In this manner, healthy communication should start even before they sign the lease and continue throughout their occupancy.
Quick, Professional Responses
How you accommodate tenant repair requests, maintenance issues, and complaints will have a direct impact on your tenant retention. Tenants expect you to pay attention to their requests. When you offer quick and professional responses, they are more likely to report small issues more often. Catching minor repairs early on can save you a lot of time and money later on.
Advanced Notice
Tenants appreciate as much advanced notice as you can give them. Always notify your tenants ahead of time if you need to enter the property to perform maintenance tasks, or if you raise the rent. If there’s anything that concerns them, be sure to let them know ahead of time. Going above and beyond what is simply required by law shows your tenants that you have their needs in mind.
Proactive Property Maintenance
Quality, long-term tenants are more likely to stay in a rental home that is being regularly and properly maintained. Tenants are more likely to take good care of your investment property if they observe you doing regular maintenance. Have them realize that caring for the property is a joint effort. In their participation in maintenance, they are more likely to feel a deep sense of satisfaction in contributing to the good condition of the property.
Requests for Feedback
In the same way, tenants who know that their landlords are listening carefully often report higher levels of satisfaction with their rental homes. You can cultivate this satisfaction by specifically requesting feedback from your tenants. Not only should you ask them what problems there are, but you can also ask them to write down a “wish list” for items. If possible, include at least one of these items in your property maintenance plan. Not only does this guarantee your tenants that you are actually listening to them but it also speaks of your willingness to invest in their long-term happiness.
Keep track of these simple approaches that will lead to the improvement of your tenant retention, as well as your investment’s bottom line. If this list seems a little overwhelming, Real Property Management Gold can make a real difference. Contact us online or call us at 301-392-2172 and ask our Calvert County property managers about our flexible property management plans.