A buy to let investment should ideally deliver impressive returns with minimal stress and these two objectives are most readily maximised when your property is occupied by a reliable long term tenant.

Too many letting agents simply sign up the first tenant who comes along, with little consideration for the long term implications of accepting the wrong tenant - even though that prospective tenant might look great on the surface.

So when choosing a tenant, it’s important firstly to find out what their motivation is. Is renting a long term plan for them, or are they hoping to buy their own property next year? Do they have a job that is likely to send them away? Is their family situation likely to change so that they might need to upsize or downsize within the foreseeable future?

Secondly, is there anything about your property that might prove to be a disappointment to a tenant once they have moved in? If so, they might just want to move as soon as your tenancy agreement allows. For example, is the property noisy due to a main road nearby?

Then make sure the tenant sees the property during rush hour as well as during a quieter time. Is it some distance to public transport? Don’t exaggerate the walking time.

Once your tenant has moved in, how are they being treated? Does your letting agent ensure that your tenant feels welcome and that there is always someone on hand should the need arise? Are maintenance issues anticipated and dealt with quickly, professionally and with a smile?

It’s always worth over-delivering on solutions too, such as not just fixing a leak, but repainting any damage caused - ideally consulting with the tenant on their choice of colour too! Show the tenant you regard as important those things they might regard as small!

A careful letting agent will ensure that any other properties they are letting nearby will also have well-considered tenants, so there shouldn’t be a problem with the neighbours.

How flexible are you prepared to be? If you allow your tenant to redecorate or make other improvements to the property then they are less likely to want to move on.

Similarly, landlords who allow pets tend to secure longer tenancies (as alternative accommodation for pets and their owners can be difficult to find). You may even be able to charge a premium rent for pet owners. One of today’s greatest turn-offs is poor broadband. It is essential that you install the fastest supply possible in your area, with no expense spared, as tenants are usually prepared to pay a premium for this.

Possibly the easiest way to ensure your tenant stays long-term, is to offer a longer tenancy at the outset. It may seem obvious, but by offering an 18 or 24 month agreement initially, you automatically preclude those who would otherwise expect to move out sooner.

Many tenants are actually attracted to longer tenancies as it means that two of the main risks associated with renting - uncertainty and security of tenure - are minimised.

Ultimately, the more a tenant can feel that your investment property is actually their ’place’, the more likely they are to want to stay.

Letting is not just about finding a tenant, it’s as much about nurturing the human aspect of your investment so that it delivers both an attractive financial yield to you, as well as providing a real sense of home for them.

Call Black Grace Cowley on 645555 to find out more.