Imagine retaining your best tenants for a few years. You could avoid stressful situations, save money, and have a regular source of income. Improving tenant relations could increase your lease renewal rate.
Not sure how to improve your landlord-tenant relationships? Read on for the tips you need to boost renter communication and satisfaction today.
Make Strong First Impressions
When gaining new tenants, try to make a strong first impression. Most people make a first impression of someone within seven seconds. About 95% of people think first impressions are very important.
Make every second count by:
- Dressing to impress
- Smiling
- Addressing tenants by name
Make your tenants feel welcomed and comfortable around you. Let them know you're available to answer their questions and respond to their concerns.
When first meeting new tenants, provide clear and unambiguous rules to avoid liabilities. For example, you should provide a copy of the lease agreement. You'll have an easier time recognizing tenants who can meet your expectations.
Request Feedback
Before using the rest of these tips, take the time to talk to your current tenants. Ask tenants how they feel about:
- The property
- Your service
- Your communication
Listen to their complaints, concerns, opinions, and ideas. Then, act on them accordingly. Acting on the feedback you receive will show tenants you care about their perspectives and needs.
They may feel more inclined to consider a lease renewal if they recognize they can depend on you.
Ensure Clear Communication
Throughout the leasing process, communicate clearly and consistently. Be transparent and reliable.
If tenants struggle to contact you, they'll get frustrated. They may decide not to renew their lease if you're not responsive. Respect their time and respond promptly.
Ensure clear communication and fast responses by using an online portal. Your property manager can set one up for you.
Give tenants more than one way to reach you. Nearly 80% of renters think they should get the information they need through chat, direct message, or text. Centralize communication through one portal to avoid missing messages.
Encourage Lease Renewal
When a tenant's lease is about to end, give them a 90-day notice. An early notice will encourage them to consider their options.
If tenants don't decide to leave, update your property marketing strategy. You'll have time to find new renters to avoid a long vacancy.
Incentive renters to stay with property upgrades or discounts. Acknowledge and reward their loyalty to strengthen your tenant relations.
Complete Maintenance
Neglecting to complete maintenance quickly could frustrate your renters. Always complete maintenance requests in a timely manner. You can outsource to a property management company to avoid delays.
Hire a Property Manager
The best property management company can improve tenant relations on your behalf. Their services can streamline communication and ensure efficiency.
With help, you can increase tenant satisfaction rates. Happy tenants are more likely to stay.
Improve Tenant Relations in Northern Virginia
Neglecting your tenants could lead to problems. Instead, use these tips to improve tenant relations and satisfaction. With these tips, you could have an easier time signing a lease renewal.
You don't have to apply these strategies alone. Working with a property manager can save you time and energy.
PMI Loudoun has nearly 20 years of industry experience. Contact us today to foster better relationships with your tenants!
