It is the small details that create lasting impressions
For landlords, meeting the legal and safety requirements of a rental property is essential. But if you want to turn a good rental into a great one and encourage tenants to stay long term, it is often the small extras that make all the difference.
In a competitive market, these thoughtful touches can set your property apart and help tenants feel at home from the very first day. Here are a few of the things tenants really appreciate, but landlords often overlook.
1. Thoughtful lighting
Good lighting can transform a space. Tenants value homes with well placed lamps, pendant lighting, and bright bulbs in practical areas like the kitchen. Even basic upgrades such as warm LED bulbs or modern lampshades can make a rental feel more inviting and better looked after.
2. Practical storage solutions
No one ever complains about having too much storage. Tenants appreciate clever, everyday storage - from fitted wardrobes to built in shelves and secure outdoor units for bikes or tools. It shows you have considered how the space will be lived in.
3. Window dressings that work
Many tenants arrive with only the essentials. By providing clean, neutral curtains or blinds, you save them time and money, and your property instantly looks more finished and ready to move into. It also avoids the mismatched or makeshift solutions tenants sometimes resort to.
4. Well maintained outdoor space
Whether it is a private garden, a balcony, or a shared courtyard, outdoor areas are highly valued. Simple touches such as tidy grass edges, a swept patio, or even a few potted plants can go a long way towards making tenants feel welcome and proud of their surroundings.
5. Clear instructions and welcome touches
A folder with useful information - like appliance manuals, bin collection days, Wi-Fi details, and local tips - can make settling in easier and show a professional, considerate approach. Some landlords go a step further by leaving a welcome pack with tea, biscuits, or basic supplies for the first night.
6. Responsiveness and respect
This is not a physical feature, but it might be the most important point of all. Tenants stay longer where they feel respected. Being responsive with repairs, clear in communication, and fair when problems arise earns lasting trust and goodwill.
Why these details matter
When tenants feel comfortable and valued, they are more likely to take care of the property, stay longer, and speak positively about their experience. For landlords, this means fewer void periods, less wear and tear, and smoother tenancies overall.
Want to create a rental tenants love? Let us help you focus on the details that truly make a difference
