Renting out a flat – furnished or not? Find out!

When deciding to let a flat, property owners face an important dilemma – whether to furnish it or leave it empty. Each of these options has its advantages, and the best choice depends on a number of factors. In the article below we will suggest which aspects may have the greatest influence on your final decision.

When is it worth furnishing a flat for rent?

The decision to furnish a flat depends mainly on the preferences of potential tenants. Small flats, including studio flats and two-room properties, are most often rented by students, singles or young couples. People in this group usually do not have their own furniture and appliances, so a furnished flat is a big plus for them. Renting a fully equipped property allows them to avoid the problems of transporting furniture or fitting it to a new place.

By contrast, 2+1 or 2+2 families look for larger, unfurnished flats. They often have their own furnishings, which they take with them on every move, especially if they relocate for work. Consequently, three- and four-room flats can be let without full furnishing, leaving the decision about the furnishings in the hands of prospective tenants.

What furniture to choose for a rental flat?

If you decide to furnish the flat, it is worth choosing durable and attractive furnishings that will suit a variety of interior styles. In the case of larger properties intended for families, you can decide to furnish only the living room, leaving the other rooms empty. This way future tenants will be able to adapt the furnishings to their needs, for example by setting up children's rooms, a home office or a bedroom.

Tenants today expect a high standard, so choose furniture that is:

• of good quality;
• versatile;
• functional;
• easy to keep clean;
• fashionable, but timeless.

Basic furnishings as standard

Whether you let the flat furnished or unfurnished, the landlord should provide basic fittings and appliances. The kitchen should be fitted with units and household appliances (a fridge and a cooker). In addition, appliances such as a dishwasher or a microwave can make the listing more attractive. In the bathroom a washing machine is essential, and in higher-standard flats a washer-dryer is increasingly common.

Built-in wardrobes are also important, as they provide convenient storage and are often expected by tenants. Installing them before listing the property for rent can significantly increase interest in your listing.

Summary

Letting a furnished flat is the most common solution on the market, especially for smaller properties. It should be remembered that a well-arranged property finds a tenant faster. If, however, you are planning to let a larger property, consider leaving part of the furnishings to the tenants' discretion, especially when the listing is aimed at families.

The final choice should reflect market conditions and the expectations of the target group. A properly prepared rental flat and the help of specialists from an estate agency in Katowice are the key to quickly finding reliable tenants and achieving a stable income.