Over
the years the kitchen has evolved from a utilitarian workspace to a fundamental
heart of the home. It often enhances open plan living areas so that couples and
families can interact between preparing food, working at a desk or watching TV.  And
just as homebuyers are impressed by a good kitchen, so are tenants too, with a
recent survey suggesting that a third of tenants regard the kitchen as the most
important aspect of the property they rent.

Good
landlords, who achieve the highest yields and the longest tenancies, tend to
invest in their kitchens. Here are some of our own tips for maximising the
nation’s favourite room to your advantage:

1.
When
buying a buy to let property, if the kitchen is anything other than immaculate,
consider putting in a new one.

2.
Today’s
tenants prefer larger, but fewer, spaces. Don’t be afraid to knock down the odd
wall to open the kitchen into the living area (building structure permitting).

3.
Avoid
the type of cheapo kitchen associated with rented properties from the 1980’s.
The best tenants’ standards are no lower than those of owner-occupiers.

4.
If
the carcasses are clean and solid, you can save money by replacing the cupboard
doors, which is easy to do, and there is a huge choice of finishes. Go
handle-less and there’s one less thing that can fall off!

5.
Take
advantage of the storage space offered by kitchen units to conceal clutter in a
furnished let. A high wall unit is an ideal place to house a Wi-Fi router.

6.
Clever
storage solutions like a “magic corner” basket unit is one of those unexpected
surprises that can impress a tenant. Good storage also means that there is
likely to be less clutter on display when the following tenant looks round the
property.

7.
Upgrade
the look of the kitchen by installing hidden remote controlled LED strip
lighting for under £30.

8.
Unless
you have a huge expanse of worktop, consider granite. A granite worktop not
only makes the kitchen look a million dollars, but you’ll avoid damage done to
a regular worktop by inconsiderate placing of a hot pan.

9.
You
might be able to increase the useable space of the property by having a “return
island” that doubles up as both workspace and breakfast bar, removing the
expense and clutter of a dining table and chairs in a smaller home.

10.
An
obviously well-fitted and appointed kitchen is a sign that you, as landlord,
care. In return you can expect a higher rent and a more considerate tenant,
ultimately delivering a better return on your investment.

Please
feel free to contact us for any advice about how to present your property to
attract the right tenant. We’ll tell it as it is!