After the Lease is Signed, Make Tenants Feel Welcome.

When you have new tenants moving in to your rental property how do you make them feel welcome? Little things really do go a long way in making a good impression on tenants. It goes without saying that after they have signed the lease the basic need for every tenant is that their landlord is responsive to maintenance calls. But it takes time to build that trust, so what can you do initially to make a good impression? 

Starting off on the right foot, will create goodwill on both sides, tenants are very aware that this is a business for you, so they want to feel that they, as customers, are appreciated. When they feel appreciated they will care for your property like it was their own. So what are some things that you can do?


Moving Day -  Moving is a hassle, no one enjoys it, so make it easier on your tenants. 

• If the property is in a busy area with parking at a premium, save a parking spot or 2 this will make it easier overall.
• Leave a 'welcome pack' - a few drinks, snacks, a list of local takeaways (maybe a voucher),
• Leave information on when rubbish day is and any phones numbers and contacts that are relevant (your contact information for example).

Month or so Later - 

• Send flowers or a produce basket about a month later with a note, welcoming them and hoping that they have settled in. 
• Consider offering to dispose of all the boxes that a no doubt still lying around, or offer a few suggestions. 

6 months -

• After they have been there 6 months or so (or if the holiday season is closer) give them a BBQ pack, or a dinner voucher and a note of thanks for being good tenants and taking care of the property.

On-Going -

• If your tenants are long-term, don't neglect them after 6 months. Keep in touch, find out what the tenant's wish list might be and see what you could do. Don't forget a yearly Christmas card (with a meal voucher) at least.

What ways have you made your tenants feel welcomed and appreciated? Or is it too much of an expense on time and your wallet to be worth your while?

Thanks for the post inspiration.