PREPARING YOUR PROPERTY FOR INVESTMENT

A well-prepared investment property minimises compliance risks by adhering to all relevant regulations, such as safety standards, tenancy laws, and maintenance requirements, ensuring legal protection and avoiding costly fines or disputes. When combined with the correct rental price, it appeals to a broader pool of prospective tenants, reducing the likelihood of extended vacancy periods. This balanced approach not only ensures steady rental income but also fosters long-term tenant satisfaction and retention.

Please Download The Property For Investment Checklist Form

Download Checklist Form

 

MAINTENANCE

At Carnell Property Group, we endeavor to respond to your maintenance requests in a timely and effective manner.

In the event that your property needs repairs, we will always get in touch with you. However, if any of the repairs listed below are necessary and we are unable to get in touch with you, we will arrange for a repair on your behalf in the most cost-effective way and get in touch with you as soon as we are able.

Both when your property is occupied and when it is unoccupied, we will notify you of any recommended maintenance. We can arrange the quotations, the labor, and the inspection of the finished product if you decide to proceed with any repairs or maintenance.

There are certain repairs that, under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010, that are classifies as urgent repairs. These repairs require immediate action:

  • A burst water service
  • An appliance, fitting or fixture that uses water or is used to supply water that is broken or not functioning properly, so that a substantial amount of water is being wasted
  • A blocked or broken toilet
  • A serious roof leak
  • A gas leak
  • A dangerous electrical fault
  • Flooding or serious flood damage
  • A failure or breakdown of the gas, electricity or water supply to the residential premises
  • A failure or breakdown of any essential service on the residential premises for hot water, heating, cooling or laundering
  • A failure or breakdown of the stove or oven
  • Any fault or damage that causes the premises to be unsafe or insecure.
  • A sewage leak

PREPARING YOUR PROPERTY FOR SALE

Preparing your home for sale is crucial for maximizing its appeal and potential selling price. A well-presented property is more likely to attract buyers, sell faster, and achieve a higher price. This involves creating a positive first impression through cleaning, decluttering, and potentially making cosmetic improvements.  

It's important to remember that you're not just selling a property — you're presenting a lifestyle. Home staging is the practice of styling your home to make it as appealing as possible to potential buyers, helping you achieve a higher sale price. This often involves introducing carefully selected furniture and décor to create a space that resonates with a wider audience. 

A well-staged home not only feels more inviting but also stands out in photographs — a key advantage in today’s image-driven market. 

You can choose to hire a professional home stager, or, if you’re confident in your design skills, you may opt to stage the home yourself. The key is to remove personal emotion and view your home through the eyes of a buyer. Your goal should be to create an environment that is fresh, clean, bright, and contemporary. 

With property inspections being the first opportunity for potential buyers to get a good look at your home, you will want to take every opportunity to increase your chance of a quick and profitable sale. Follow these tips to show your home off at its best. 

Please Download The Property For Sale Checklist Form

Download Checklist Form

 

MAINTENANCE

Keeping your home in excellent condition doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Regular upkeep helps prevent costly repairs and ensures a safe and comfortable living environment. Use this schedule to guide your routine maintenance throughout the year.

 

MONTHLY TASKS

  • Clear out and clean all household sinks and drains

  • Clean or replace filters in your heating and cooling systems

  • Soak and scrub your rangehood filters with a degreasing cleaner

  • Test all smoke alarms; wipe them down and replace batteries if needed

  • Replace any burnt-out light bulbs

 

EVERY 3 MONTHS

  • Check for leaks around your fridge, vacuum the coils, and confirm it’s set to the correct temperature

  • Remove dust and lint from your laundry exhaust vents

  • Clean the lint filters and screens in both your washer and dryer

  • Flush toilets and run taps in areas of the home that aren’t frequently used

 

EVERY 6 MONTHS

  • Walk around the exterior to inspect paintwork, driveways, and foundations for cracks or wear

  • Reseal decks, fences, or any exposed timber structures

  • Run all water taps and check hoses for damage or wear

  • Prune back any trees or large branches that are close to the house

  • Inspect and clean gutters and downpipes to ensure proper drainage

  • Trim any plants or trees near power lines for safety

  • Look out for signs of water leaks or other damage around the home

  • Check taps, seals, and roofing for any evidence of moisture or deterioration

  • Investigate under the house for any dampness or structural issues

 

ANNUALLY

  • Wash down exterior walls, especially if located near the ocean or industrial areas

  • Schedule a professional carpet clean to maintain hygiene and extend carpet life

  • Thoroughly clean ceiling fans to remove built-up dust and debris

  • Inspect all metal components (inside and outside) for rust or corrosion, especially brackets and fixings

  • Check the roof for any missing or broken tiles, metal corrosion, or leaks in flashings and caps

  • Evaluate the subfloor for ventilation, signs of pests, or shifting soil that could affect stability

  • Book a full air conditioning service, following the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines