Renting out your spare room can be a rewarding experience. Not only are you opening your doors to new people from all walks of life, but you’re also creating a safe space that a stranger can call home.
If you’re a homeowner looking to rent out your spare room, we’ll help you transform it into a comfortable and homely space for future tenants.
So whether you’re renting out rooms in Philadelphia, New York City, Boston, or anywhere else in the US, here’s everything you need to know about creating a safe and cozy space for your new housemate.
It’s Important To Understand Tenant Needs
Before you even start thinking about preparing your room to rent out, you need to know what potential tenants will be looking for.
Just like with any home, tenants will be seeking cleanliness, comfort, privacy, and even a touch of personality, especially if they’re renting long-term.
As a landlord, your goal should be to create a room that feels warm and inviting, as well as functional for their everyday needs.
Think About Cleanliness and Maintenance
Before you welcome anyone into your home, you need to make sure that it has been thoroughly cleaned– not just the room they’re staying in.
It’s unlikely that tenants will want to stay in an untidy house, even if the room itself is immaculate.
Make sure their room is completely free from clutter and dust. You could even hire a professional cleaner beforehand to ensure the room truly is spotless, especially if it’s been empty for a while.
But there’s more to renting out a room than giving it a deep clean. You’ll also need to maintain the room, which means regularly checking for repairs.
A well-maintained room not only looks appealing but also shows your commitment to the tenant’s comfort as a landlord.
Speaking Of Comfort…
It’s important to invest in high-quality furniture. A comfortable bed, a sturdy desk, and closet space are the basic essentials.
If the room is big enough, you could also think about adding a cozy chair or a small sofa. Good quality mattresses and pillows, along with fresh linens, will make a huge difference in how comfortable your new housemate feels.
When it comes to lighting the room, make sure there’s enough natural light through the window.
Floor or desk lamps will create a warmer ambiance, especially in winter when the nights get darker earlier.
But you don’t just want to think about the wintertime! Proper insulation and a reliable heating and cooling system will ensure the room stays nice and comfortable year-round.
Add Some Personal Touches
Even if you keep the decor neutral, adding some character can go a long way in making the room feel more welcoming.
Art pieces, indoor plants, or decorative pillows can add warmth without cluttering up the space.
Privacy Matters
Privacy is crucial for tenants, especially in a houseshare. If the room doesn’t have a lock, install one before anyone moves in, especially if you’re renting out more than one room at a time. Make sure to provide curtains or blinds to cover up the windows.
Keeping Connected
In today’s world, reliable Wi-Fi is non-negotiable. Make sure your internet connection reaches the spare room.
It should also be strong– you don’t want to find your tenant stuck sitting in one corner of the room, trying to connect.
If you’re looking to go the extra mile, why not add a small TV or a Bluetooth speaker in the room? This can be a thoughtful addition for tech-savvy tenants, and it will help make their space feel more like home.
The Bathroom Situation
If the room doesn’t have an en-suite bathroom, keep on top of bathroom maintenance. Regular cleaning, functional fixtures, and hot water are all basic necessities you should be providing to your tenants.
Kitchen and Laundry Access
Chat with your tenant about which kitchen and laundry facilities are available to them. If you have a shared kitchen, designate cupboard and fridge space.
This is even more important if you’re housing multiple tenants, as it’ll stop disagreements and arguments from breaking out in the long run.
When it comes to doing laundry, set clear guidelines about usage times and maintenance.
Safety First
Before a stranger steps foot in your house, it’s important to make sure all safety measures are in place. Smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and a first-aid kit are essential.
It’s also important to make sure your tenant knows the emergency exit routes and any other safety protocols, so don’t forget to go over that with them the day they move in.
SpareRoom: Finding The Perfect Tenant
Once your room is tenant-ready, how do you find the right person to move in? This is where SpareRoom comes in.
SpareRoom is a platform that helps people find rooms to rent. With its easy-to-see listings, it simplifies the process of connecting landlords with potential tenants.
Creating A Listing On SpareRoom
To create an engaging listing on SpareRoom, include high-quality photos of the room and common areas. Grainy, dark, or unclear photos will automatically be deemed untrustworthy by tenants.
Be honest when writing up your description – mention the room’s features, your expectations, and any rules you might have so the tenant knows what they’re signing up for.
Final Thoughts
Renting out your spare room can be a fulfilling experience, both financially and personally, but it’s important to make your tenant feel comfortable.
Although we’ve included a few basic things you need to consider before becoming a landlord, it doesn’t hurt to go the extra mile.
This will help you create a trustworthy reputation as both a landlord and a housemate.
And with online platforms like SpareRoom, finding a tenant that matches your expectations and values is easier than ever before.
