To Furnish or Not to Furnish? Deciding on Your Buy-to-Let Strategy

So, you’ve snagged yourself a buy-to-let property, but now comes the big question: to furnish or not to furnish? Let’s dive into it.

First off, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It all boils down to the property itself and the market it’s in. Speaking from personal experience, my own properties aren’t furnished. Surprisingly, the rent difference between furnished and unfurnished properties isn’t all that significant.

There are definite perks to leaving your property unfurnished. Think less wear and tear and lower costs in the long run. However, if you’re struggling to find tenants and need to stay competitive, offering furnishings might be your best bet.

But how do you go about it? What standards should you adhere to? And what about insurance? Keep in mind that while your buy-to-let insurance covers the property itself, it won’t extend to the contents. Ensure all furnishings meet fire safety standards, and don’t forget a detailed inventory to keep track of it all.

Not sure where to find quality furniture suppliers? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Sometimes, a bit of refurbishment is in order if things are looking a bit worse for wear. And if you’re unsure about what fixtures and fittings are needed, guides are readily available to point you in the right direction.

Here’s the thing: investing in furnishing your property well can pay off in spades. You might command higher rent and fill vacancies quicker. So, don’t shy away from spending a bit extra here and there—it could be the key to maximising your returns in the long haul.