Forming a lasting relationship with your new occupant means both parties will have a vested interest in each other’s success. What this means for the landlord is that an occupant is less likely to avoid making their monthly payment, maintain the property, and is more willing to come forward in as soon as possible to warn about developing issues.  One of the best ways to establish a good relationship from the start is with a welcome package. Here are five simple things to include:

1. Start With A Gift Basket

Moving is a stressful situation that you as a landlord can make easier with a small gift basket welcoming the client. Include such necessary items as toilet paper, small containers of dish soap, in addition to coupons and information on local restaurants and takeouts. You can also include some luxury items like gourmet foods and wine.

2. Provide Utility Resources:

When you provide this information to your new occupants it is beneficial for both of you. First, your occupants can ensure all utilities are turned on when they move in. Secondly, when your occupant calls the utility company and sets up payment information it ensures that the utilities are in the occupant’s name and billed as such.

3. Basic Occupant Information:

Include important details about your company and the community. For example, do you accept electronic rent payments? A drop box for checks? Also make sure to include trash disposal, laundry, mailbox, and parking information. This allows your occupants to have a clear guideline from the day they move-in.

4. Provide other important contacts:

Offer a list of important contacts that can help them resolve any issues. Offer a guide to renters insurance. The information for all your maintenance personnel, local emergency services, and any other relevant contacts that can help them.

5. Respond To Any Complaints

Responding to any questions or complaints quickly and efficiently will help establish a trusting relationship between you and your occupant, in addition to preventing the situation to escalate and costing you the landlord a higher bill. 

Taking time to welcome occupants helps establish a great relationship with your occupants from day one. Showing that appreciation will help you increase occupant retention and establish a good rapport in your community. For more tips and ideas, make sure to subscribe to Occupancy Solutions’ blog. We post a wide variety of information that can help you improve your occupant relationships through property management training consulting services