The main qualities a landlord looks for in a tenant is one that pays their rent on time, takes care of their property, and stays for a long time.

Credit checking and references will help clarify the first two qualities, but what about the third?

This takes a little longer to be revealed; the key to keeping tenants for the long term, is to build a strong professional relationship with them.

In today’s world of software, emails and text messages, it can be easy to forget there is a person at the other end, but the way you manage your tenants is going to have a direct impact on how they treat you, how long they stay in your property and your reputation as a landlord.

As a landlord, you’re a business person providing a place to live and your tenant, as your customer, has a right to expect a certain level of service. Bear this in mind and you’ll win them over from the start.

Here are five ways to help build a good relationship with your tenant.

1 First impressions

First impressions count – and it starts at the first viewing. You, or your agent should be on time, and be polite and friendly when you’re showing them round. Be honest with them. Tell them everything they need to know about your property, including the downsides. For example, if your property is in a strata community, there may be some strata regulations such as not hanging washing out on the balcony, and a no pets policy.

By being honest from the start, you’re building trust, and they can make an informed decision about taking on your property.

If the person decides to take the tenancy, be prompt and efficient and ensure the paperwork is correct.

2 Good communications

Good communications are critical to any relationship, not just a tenant/landlord one!

Talk through the tenancy agreement and highlight any special clauses. When a tenant signs the lease, ensure they have your or your agent’s contact details, for both weekday and out of hours. That way they will feel assured they can get in touch with you if there is an emergency.

The way landlords communicate with their tenants is crucial to the way the relationship develops. Whether it is by an online portal, email, phone or text, ensure you are both clear about the way you will communicate from the very beginning.

3 Act on all issues

Timely responses to queries and issues are a must.

There will be some issues you will need to manage immediately, such as a burst hot water system, and there will be others which may take a little longer.

Whatever the issue, treat them all with the same level of understanding and reassure your tenants you will do your best to resolve the problem. If you’re approachable, the chances are your tenant will let you know about problems before they become more serious.

4 Respect your tenant’s home

Whether you’ve lived in the property or not, your property is now your tenant’s home, and you need to respect their privacy.

Tenants know routine inspections have to happen and tradesmen will need to come round for repairs, but there is legislation in place for landlords to give appropriate notice.

Rather than announce a time and date find out when it’s convenient for them.

5 Maintain a business relationship

You can still be friendly, but be professional. Building rapport and nurturing mutual respect are essential. It’s rarely a good idea to become friends with your tenants as emotions can become involved, especially when difficulties are faced in paying rent.

That said, a bit of empathy can go a long way; if something genuinely has happened, such as a job loss or relationship breakdown, while you aren’t a charity, talking to your tenant to work something out is the first step.

Good relationships with your tenant work both ways, for instance if you’re raising the rent or if later down the track, you’re wanting to put the property on the market.

This is where a good agent is a great asset in your property investor toolbox. As well as putting distance between you and your tenant, a good agent will manage your tenants and build up a good, professional relationship.

We have a great reputation for finding the perfect tenant who not only pays the rent on time and takes care of the property, but often remains in the property for several years. We manage them, keep your property properly maintained through our network of skilled trades people and ensure you’re compliant with the latest legislation.

As we’ve been in the business for over 40 years, we have a wealth of experience behind us when it comes to letting property.

Get in touch and see how our property management services can make your life easier and free you up to do more of the things you want to do.

Simply give us a ring on 02 4956 9777, send us an email to mail@newcastlepropertymanagement.com.au or pop into our Cardiff office for a chat.

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