Why Tenants Pay More for Homes That Feel Right
Let’s be blunt – tenants aren’t just choosing based on price. They’re choosing based on how the property makes them feel.
You could have two homes with the same rent, same number of bedrooms, even the same postcode – but if one feels fresh, clean, and well thought-out, and the other feels tired or unloved, guess which one they’ll go for?
And here’s the kicker – they’ll often pay more for the one that feels right, even if it’s smaller or slightly older.
1. Rent Isn’t Just About Location – It’s About Emotion
Tenants don’t just scan Rightmove looking for specs. They scroll until something catches their eye – something that looks light, clean, spacious, and easy to move into. It’s a gut decision, often made in seconds. That’s why how your property is presented – not just where it is – has a huge impact on what it rents for, and how fast.
Things that boost emotional appeal:
- Natural light
- Decluttered, neutral interiors
- Fresh paint and clean flooring
- Well-composed, high-quality photography
- A space that feels looked after
2. The 'Scroll Test' – First Impressions Win
We live in a fast-scroll world. Tenants swipe through 10–15 properties in one go. If your listing looks dark, cluttered, or vague – they won’t even click in.
The mistake some landlords make:
Using quick phone snaps, not tidying up beforehand, or assuming the tenant will “see past it.”
The result?
Lower interest, fewer viewings, longer voids – and eventually a reduced rent just to get someone in.
3. What We Do Differently at Martyn Russell
We treat every rental like a marketing campaign – because that’s exactly what it is. We’ll guide you on staging, presentation, and even simple layout tweaks that can make the space more appealing. We use professional photography, video tours, and listing copy that speaks to the right audience. Whether it's a modern flat for a young professional or a cosy home for a small family – we help it shine online and in person.
The result?
More viewings, stronger tenant applications, and better rent.
4. It’s Not About Spending Big – It’s About Getting It Right
You don’t need to gut-renovate or splash out on fancy furniture. Often, it’s the little details that make the biggest difference:
- Replacing harsh bulbs with warm LEDs
- A brand-new front doormat – clean, inviting, and cheap
- Hanging baskets or potted plants to soften the exterior
- Tidy front and back gardens – trimmed grass, swept paths, no bins in sight
- Freshly cleaned windows – inside and out
- A quick paint touch-up to cover marks or scuffs
- Removing bulky furniture or clutter to open up the space
- A subtle vanilla plug-in diffuser – so it smells as fresh as it looks
These touches speak volumes. They don’t just show the property is well looked after – they make tenants feel like someone cares. And that feeling? It translates directly into stronger offers and longer tenancies.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will tenants really pay more for a better-presented home?
Yes – tenants are paying for lifestyle as much as location. If it feels good, clean, and well-kept, they’ll pay more and stay longer.
❓ Does staging work in rentals the same way it does in sales?
Absolutely. While you don’t need full home staging, making a property feel neutral and inviting boosts demand instantly.
❓ Isn’t it the agent’s job to make it look good?
A good agent will help guide and present it properly – but if the property starts off in poor condition, even the best photos won’t fix that. It’s a team effort.
❓ Can you help me improve the look of my property without spending much?
Yes – we offer clear, honest advice on what to change, what to leave, and how to make the biggest impact for the least cost.
Want your property to stand out – and earn more?
Let’s chat. One walk-through, and we’ll show you exactly how to make it feel right.