As a landlord or letting agent, you understand that vacant properties mean lost revenue. Every day a property remains empty between tenants directly impacts your bottom line. One of the most effective ways to minimise void periods and attract quality tenants is through professional end-of-tenancy decorating.
Why End-of-Tenancy Decorating Matters
First impressions are crucial in the rental market. Potential tenants make decisions within minutes of viewing a property, and the visual appeal of your rental can be the deciding factor between a quick let and weeks of vacancy.
Properties Rent Faster with Fresh Decoration
Our experience working with landlords across Devon shows that freshly decorated properties consistently rent faster than those showing signs of wear and tear. Clean, bright walls and ceilings create an immediate positive impression, making tenants more likely to commit during their viewing. See examples in our project gallery.
Statistics from leading letting agents indicate that well-presented properties can reduce void periods by up to 40%. This translates to significant savings when you consider the typical costs of an empty property:
- •Lost rental income
- •Ongoing mortgage payments
- •Council tax liabilities
- •Insurance premiums
- •Utility standing charges
Attracting Quality Tenants
Professional decoration doesn't just speed up the letting process—it also helps attract better-quality tenants. Properties that are well-maintained and freshly decorated tend to appeal to tenants who take pride in their living environment and are more likely to care for the property during their tenancy.
Choosing the Right Colours and Finishes
The key to successful end-of-tenancy decorating lies in selecting colours and finishes that appeal to the broadest possible market while providing durability and easy maintenance.
Neutral Colour Schemes
Neutral colours are essential for rental properties. They create a blank canvas that allows potential tenants to envision their own belongings in the space. Popular choices include:
- •Magnolia and warm whites: Classic choices that brighten spaces and work with any décor
- •Light greys: Modern and sophisticated, appealing to younger tenants
- •Soft beiges: Warm and welcoming, suitable for all room types
- •Pale blues and greens: Calming colours perfect for bedrooms and bathrooms
Durable Paint Finishes
Rental properties need paints that can withstand regular wear and tear. We recommend:
- •Washable emulsion: For main living areas, allowing easy cleaning of marks and scuffs
- •Kitchen and bathroom paint: Moisture-resistant formulations for high-humidity areas
- •Eggshell or satin finishes: For woodwork, providing durability and easy cleaning
Cost vs. Benefit Analysis
Many landlords question whether the investment in professional decorating is worthwhile, especially when faced with multiple property turnovers. However, the mathematics strongly favour professional decoration:
Professional Decoration Investment
A typical two-bedroom rental property might cost £800-£1,200 to professionally decorate between tenancies. This includes:
- •Preparation work (filling holes, sanding, cleaning)
- •High-quality paints and materials
- •Professional application
- •Cleaning and finishing
Return on Investment
Consider the potential returns:
- •Reduced void period: Even saving one week of vacancy (£200-£300 rent) nearly covers the decoration cost
- •Higher rental values: Well-presented properties can command 5-10% higher rents
- •Longer tenancies: Quality tenants in well-maintained properties tend to stay longer
- •Reduced maintenance: Regular decoration prevents more costly repairs later
Why Choose Professional Decorators Over DIY
While DIY decoration might seem cost-effective, professional decorators offer significant advantages for landlords and letting agents:
Time Efficiency
Professional teams can complete a full property decoration in 2-3 days, compared to weeks for DIY efforts. This speed is crucial for minimizing void periods and getting properties back on the rental market quickly.
Quality and Durability
Professional decorators have the skills and experience to deliver a finish that lasts longer and looks better. Proper preparation, high-quality materials, and expert application mean fewer touch-ups and longer intervals between decorating cycles.
“Professional decoration doesn't just make properties look better—it's an investment that pays for itself through reduced void periods and higher rental yields.”
Working with BSR Decorating
At BSR Decorating, we understand the unique challenges facing landlords and letting agents. Our end-of-tenancy decorating service is designed specifically for the rental market:
Quick Turnaround Times
We pride ourselves on efficient scheduling and completion. Most properties can be scheduled within days of your call, and we work to agreed timescales to ensure your property is ready for new tenants as quickly as possible.
Landlord-Friendly Pricing
We offer competitive rates for landlords with multiple properties and can provide package deals for property portfolios. Our transparent pricing means no hidden costs or surprises.
Whether you need domestic decorating services for rental properties or have questions about our approach, we're here to help.
Ready to minimise your next void period? Contact BSR Decorating today for a free, no-obligation quote on your end-of-tenancy decorating requirements.