Families often seek stability and a sense of community and they tend to stay in one place for extended periods. For landlords, this can translate into reduced void periods and a steady income stream. However, attracting family tenants requires careful consideration and some adjustments to your property to meet their specific needs. In this article, we will explore the benefits of renting to families, what appeals to them and key considerations to ensure your property attracts long-term family tenants.
The Benefits of Renting to Families
Families typically offer a sense of security for landlords. While students or single professionals might relocate more frequently, families are often looking for a “home” rather than just a place to stay. This means they are more likely to settle in for the long term, providing landlords with a stable rental income. Longer tenancies reduce the need for frequent tenant searches and the associated costs of re-letting a property, such as marketing and agency fees. Additionally, families tend to take better care of a property, viewing it as their own home rather than a short-term rental.
Another key benefit of renting to families is their desire for a safe and secure environment. When they find a property that meets their needs, they are often willing to invest time and effort into maintaining the home, which can result in fewer maintenance issues for landlords.
What Appeals to Family Tenants?
To attract family tenants, it’s important to understand what they’re looking for in a rental property. Here are some of the key factors that can make your property more appealing:
- Proximity to Good Schools
Families with children will prioritise living in catchment areas of good or outstanding schools. Properties within these zones are highly sought after, so it’s worth highlighting your property’s proximity to reputable schools in your advertising. Being near a good school can significantly increase your property’s appeal and value. - Safety and Security
A family’s primary concern is the safety of their children. Families will look for properties in safe neighbourhoods with low crime rates. Ensure that your property is well-maintained, secure and equipped with safety features such as sturdy doors, windows with locks and outdoor lighting. Adding extra security features like a burglar alarm can also be a strong selling point for families. - Space and Layout
Space is a top priority for families. They will need enough room for everyone to live comfortably, which means properties with three or more bedrooms, ample living space and a garden or outdoor space are highly attractive. Open-plan living areas are ideal for family life, allowing parents to keep an eye on young children while cooking or doing household chores. Additionally, storage space for toys, sports equipment and other family essentials is a must. - Outdoor Space
A private garden or access to a communal outdoor area is a significant advantage for family tenants. Children need space to play and outdoor areas can become essential for social gatherings and family activities. If your property has a garden, consider making it as child-friendly as possible by ensuring it’s secure, well-maintained and easy to manage. - Access to Local Amenities and Transport Links
Families value convenience. Being close to local shops, supermarkets, parks, healthcare facilities and public transport links is an attractive feature. When marketing your property, emphasise the nearby amenities and transport links that will make daily life easier for family tenants. Easy access to motorways, bus routes and train stations will also appeal to families with commuting parents.
Considerations for Renting to Families
Before renting to families, there are a few practical considerations to keep in mind to ensure your property is suitable for long-term tenants with children.
- Childproofing the Property
While families with older children may not require many adjustments, homes with younger children will need to be childproof. This might include installing stair gates, securing windows and ensuring there are no sharp edges or exposed electrical outlets that could pose a risk to toddlers. - Pet-Friendly Policies
Many families will have pets and offering a pet-friendly rental could widen your pool of potential tenants. However, ensure that your tenancy agreement includes clear guidelines about the maintenance of the property and pet-related responsibilities. - Longer Tenancy Agreements
Families value stability, so offering longer-term tenancy agreements can be a significant draw. Families are less likely to move frequently, especially if they have children settled in local schools. By offering longer leases, you demonstrate that you are committed to providing a stable home, which will appeal to families seeking long-term accommodation. - Flexibility with Décor
Allowing families some flexibility in personalising the space can increase tenant satisfaction and encourage longer stays. While a neutral décor is generally more appealing, being open to minor decorative changes—such as repainting a room—could make a family feel more at home and invested in your property.
Attracting long-term family tenants requires a thoughtful approach, but the rewards can be substantial. By making your property family-friendly and highlighting its suitability for long-term living, you can ensure a reliable and stable rental income for years to come. If you’re a landlord looking for advice on how to make your property more appealing to family tenants, or if you need help managing your rental, contact Northwood today. Our expert team is on hand to assist with every aspect of property letting, from finding the right tenants to ensuring your property is well-maintained.
