Furnishing a Buy to Let

Furnishing a buy to let property is essential, but it can be challenging. It's a long-term investment that demands a lot of thought, effort, and money. By furnishing the property, you add value and make it more appealing to potential tenants.

In this insight, we'll explore all you need to know about furnishing a buy to let property.

Key Takeaways

• Furnishing a buy-to-let property is important as it adds value to the property, increases the rental return, and saves time and money in the long run.
• When furnishing, it is essential to keep the tenants in mind by choosing furniture that is comfortable, affordable, aesthetically pleasing, durable, and easy to maintain.
• Key items that should be included when furnishing a buy-to-let property are a bed, a wardrobe, a sofa, a dining table and chairs, a coffee table, lighting, and curtains.
• It's possible to furnish a buy-to-let property on a budget by shopping around for deals, looking for second-hand furniture or furniture from discount stores, and choosing furniture that can be easily assembled. It is also possible to make a buy-to-let property look good by painting walls, adding mirrors, and using accessories.

Furnishing a Buy to Let

So, you've arranged your buy to let mortgages, completed and have your keys. It's time to decide if you are going to let furnished or unfurnished. Furnishing a buy to let property is crucial for various reasons. Firstly, it adds value to the property, and tenants often prefer furnished properties. Secondly, it can increase rental returns as landlords can charge a higher rent. Thirdly, it saves time and money as landlords can furnish the property in one go.

However, landlords should keep tenants in mind when furnishing the property. The furniture and accessories should be comfortable, affordable, and visually appealing. Additionally, the furniture should be durable and able to withstand regular wear and tear since tenants will be using it.

What should you include when furnishing a buy to let?

If you're buying to let as a first time buyer, you're probably wondering what to include when furnishing your buy to let. It's important to add value and increase rental return. Tenants often prefer furnished properties over unfurnished ones. Furnishing a property all at once can save time and money. When furnishing, keep the tenants in mind and choose durable, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing furniture.

When it comes to furnishing a buy to let property, there are a few key items that should be included:

• Essential items to include are a bed, wardrobe, sofa, dining table and chairs, and a coffee table.
• Additional items to consider are a TV, rug, side table, mirror, and blanket box.
• Don't forget to include lighting and curtains to create a homely and inviting atmosphere.

Furnish Buy to Let on a Budget

Furnishing a buy to let property can be done on a budget without sacrificing style. Shopping around for deals and looking for second-hand furniture or furniture from discount stores are great ways to save money. Additionally, choosing furniture that can be easily assembled can be more cost-effective than buying pre-assembled pieces.

It's also important to consider cost-effective ways to enhance the overall look of the property. Simple improvements such as painting the walls, adding mirrors, and using accessories can make a big difference in the appearance of the property. These cost-effective options can make the property more appealing without having to spend a lot of money.

The best furniture for a buy to let

To furnish a buy to let property, choose furniture that is stylish, comfortable, and durable. Consider leather sofas and chairs for easy cleaning and durability, as well as wooden furniture for affordability and longevity. Choose furniture that is easy to move and assemble to make it convenient for tenants to use.

Tips for Furnishing a Buy to Let

When it comes to furnishing a buy to let property, there are a few tips that can help make the process easier and less expensive. Firstly, it is important to measure the rooms before buying furniture. This will help to ensure that the furniture fits in the space and that it is not too large or too small. Secondly, it is important to choose furniture that is easy to clean and maintain. This will help to keep the property looking nice for longer. Thirdly, it is important to choose furniture that is neutral and not too personal. This will help to make the property more appealing to potential tenants.

Sources for furniture and accessories

When it comes to sourcing furniture and accessories for a buy to let property, there are a few different options. One of the best places to start is online. There are numerous websites that offer furniture and accessories at discounted prices. It is also possible to buy furniture from second-hand stores or charity shops. This is often much cheaper than buying new furniture. It is also possible to buy furniture directly from manufacturer's websites. This can often be a good way to get furniture at a discounted rate.

How to style a buy to let

When it comes to styling a buy to let property, it is important to remember that it should be neutral and not too personal. This will help to make the property more appealing to potential tenants. It is also important to include a few accessories such as lamps, rugs and throws. This will help to make the property feel more homely and inviting. It is also important to remember to keep the walls and floors neutral. This will help to make the property look brighter and more spacious.

What to avoid when furnishing a buy to let

When it comes to furnishing a buy to let property, there are a few things to avoid. Firstly, it is important to avoid furniture that is too large or too small. This will make the space look cramped or empty. Secondly, it is important to avoid furniture that is too personal. This may put off potential tenants. Thirdly, it is important to avoid furniture that is not comfortable or easy to maintain. This will make the property less appealing to tenants.

Buy to Let Furnished or Unfurnished?

If you choose to furnish your buy to let, you may achieve a higher rent as the property will appear better value for money if it is well designed and comes with plenty of furnishings. However, you need to remember that you will have to maintain high standards and the tennants will not be responsible for wear and tear.

If you do let the property furnished, you will be able to take an inventory of all the contents. If there are any damages, your tennant is liable and you will be able to deduct from their deposit.

Generally, most properties are now let with basic furnishings. They include a bed, sofa, microwave and dining table. Unless you are going over and beyond with more furnishings, you shouldn't expect to be able to charge a much higher rent than if you decide to let a non-furnished property.

Next steps

Furnishing a buy to let is an important part of being a landlord. It is important to remember that the furniture and accessories should be comfortable, affordable and aesthetically pleasing. It is also important to remember to shop around and look for deals. This will help to ensure that the property is furnished on a budget. Finally, it is important to remember to keep the property neutral and not too personal. This will help to make the property more appealing to tenants. For more insight on buy to lets, read : Is Buy to Let Worth It?