Building a Granny Flat: What Makes it Attractive to Tenants

Posted on June 27, 2021

Pictured Alysha de Ruyter on a blogging trip with the founder Lisa a keen editor & content specialist for Grannyflatrental.com.au

How to have your rental property stand out from the pool of rental listings

We asked an experienced Property Management Lead, at a local realty agency who advertises on our site, if they would like to write a blog about what owners should consider when leasing their granny flat. Joe Iemma wrote the following helpful article:

As a Property Management company on the Northern Beaches of Sydney we have been responsible for leasing and managing hundreds of newly built granny flats over the years in our core area. During this time we have seen some flats that are popular to potential tenants and achieve the best rents. Other properties are more difficult to find tenants for which is also reflective on the rent that they achieve.

From my experience (over 30 years as a property manager) the following features usually rank high on prospective tenants' must-have list when looking for a property. It is also important to remember the demographic of tenant that you are hoping to attract, with some tenants there will be an expectation that the property will have certain features and can make all the difference in their consideration.

Features that tenants look for in a rental property

1.  At least one decent sized bedroom – to fit a queen-sized bed with some clearance around it for additional furnishings, such as bedsides and a chest of draws or small desk.

2.  Storage – built in robes, again at least one bedroom should have a built- in robe. Linen amazing how many people look for a linen cupboard.

3.  Appliances – Dishwasher is almost a necessity, this is a big one for lots of couples and small families that are time poor.

Even if a big bulky dishwasher doesn't suit your plans, like in this granny flat, you can disguise the appliance in one these sleek draws! Convenience doesn't have to compromise aesthetics.

4.  Air-Conditioning – heating and cooling have become pre-requisites. Gas can be great for heating, however, in saying that cooling has become a must have for many people.

5.  Parking – doesn’t have to be a garage although in line with our previous point, storage which could be in the form of a garden shed for storing bikes, surfboard, wetsuits as a bonus. Plus off-street parking where possible, especially for say tradies that have expensive tools in their vehicles if they can get off road down a driveway it is great for their peace of mind and security.

6.  Outdoor area – courtyard/balcony or a grassed yard especially to entertain, bbq or for a kids play area. Also a plus if the family hope to lease with a pet.

A simple brolly and patio furniture combo makes a lovely outdoor space without breaking the bank.

7.  Living area – fair sized living space. Most of the times this will be open plan with combined kitchen, lounge and dining area.

8.  Natural light and airflow always important to think about. This can be achieved by having more and/or larger windows, or higher-pitched ceilings also helps with the feeling of spaciousness.

You may not be able to get all the features listed, but having some will give you a better
chance of attracting a great tenant. We recommend getting a Property Manager in at the initial stages when planning your development to share their thoughts and what they think will work in your area.

Thank you

Thank you Joe for this great contribution your knowledge is most valued.

Contact us at Granny Flat Rental for your advertising needs and if you need a property manager in your area we can help point you in the right direction with our great partners.

About Joe Iemma edited by Alysha de Ruyter

Visit us @ FaceBook @grannyflatrental  Connect with us on instagram

Disclaimer: Any information is of general help & not deemed as legal or financial advice. GrannyFlatRental.com.au Pty Ltd is not held responsible for any compensation from this general help. Our partners give us a small referral fee, but must continue to provide over 4 star service to stay in our GrannyFlat Rental Referral Program to both landlords and tenants.