A family friendly rental property helps you attract high-quality and long-term tenants. Many things families look for in rental properties may not be as important to singles and seniors. Keep reading to learn some tips to make your rental property move family friendly in the Minneapolis area!
Typically, adults in families renting homes will be further along in their careers, more dependably with a stable income. It’s less of a worry about your tenant coming up with rent each month. Moving with a family is huge chore and burdensome. Families tend to want to stay put longer both for the convenience and to provide stability for their kids. Below are some great ways to make your rental property more family-friendly in Minneapolis!
Improve The Yard
Families with kids will likely spend a lot of time outside. If there are not currently trees in the backyard, consider planting some. Shade is important, trees create lovely ambiance too, and in Minnesota having them around your property also serves as a little protection from winter weather. Consider adding more grass, plants and other things to make the area more aesthetically pleasing. Think more green space and less concrete. Include areas for games, toys, and bicycle storage. A fence in the backyard is more inviting to families with pets and younger children, especially. A patio area, and even providing tables and chairs as a rental courtesy, may inspire families who will be active outdoors. It’s been said, more outdoor presence of neighborhood residents can contribute to lower crime.
With multi-family units or apartment complexes, properties with playgrounds or generous area for play are convenient and attractive to families. A great yard will often top a parent’s list when looking for a home. Include in the lease who is responsible for the yard maintenance and shoveling. The easier you can make it on the tenant, the better. You can offset any costs you have by increasing the rent proportionally.
Make It Safe
Safety first is the motto you should stick to here. Kids climb and fall off things, so do your best to discourage this. Include handrails on the stairs and prevent assess to any areas with ledges. Provide for adequate lighting throughout the home. Be sure to include smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in each room and a simple way to get out of the house if needed. Check out more safety information about carbon monoxide safety here. Make sure there are multiple locks on the door and that all are in working order. You might even consider adding a security system, giving the tenant the option to pay the monthly cost or not. Anything to help the parents sleep better at night is sure to be a big crowd pleaser.
Allow Pets
When a family has kids, they are likely to have some sort of pet. Whether it be a cat, dog, gerbil, or lizard, make room for this in your lease. Of course, you can set limits and charge an extra security deposit, but by welcoming in the family pet, you are opening the door for many renting families who might be limited on where their pets will be allowed. Many times we come across families who have to turn a rental property down simply because their pet won’t be able to come with them.
Highlight Family-Friendly Attractions
When marketing your property, be sure to point out the benefits your neighborhood offers to families. Provide information about local parks, schools, and family-friendly attractions such as movie theaters and skating rinks. The idea is to showcase any feature or place families will enjoy and feel safe. The more information people have on your house, the more excited they will be about renting it!