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HMO Tenants, Moving In
At Cairn before letting an HMO we meet all tenants that will stay in the property and implement an industry-standard vetting procedure that includes a credit check, employment and prior landlord references. We ensure that all our tenants are reliable whilst ensuring guarantors are in place as well as undertaking a fully comprehensive property inventory at the beginning.
All tenants must be educated on how to live in an HMO property before moving in to ensure a smooth tenancy. Our move-in tenant training includes:
- What to do in a fire?
- How to test smoke/carbon monoxide alarms.
- Electrical Safety.
- How to use all appliances.
- Neighbour consideration.
- How to comply with HMO safety requirements.
- Meter readings are taken at this point.
- We set up council tax, gas and electricity accounts.
- Smoking is not permitted in any of our properties.
During the tenancy
Cairn inspects every HMO property quarterly throughout the tenancy ensuring it is kept to a satisfactory standard, with a quarterly report being recorded for each property. We note and photograph any cleaning, repair and maintenance that is required and we repeat fire safety training throughout the duration of the lease in particular updating our tenants on safety measures or any new legislation.
HMO Tenants, Moving out
Cairn completes the pre-move-out inspection of your property before you move out, recording any maintenance, damage or cleaning work required before releasing your deposit in association with Safe Deposit Scotland. Meter Readings will also be taken here before we close down tenant-liable utility accounts.
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Tenanted Properties
How to Handle Tenanted Properties During Winter
How to Handle Tenanted Properties During Winter As a landlord, managing tenanted properties during winter comes with its own set of challenges. From ensuring the property is winter-ready to maintaining clear communication with tenants, this guide will help you navigate the colder months smoothly. Winter Property Maintenance Tips Winter can be harsh on properties, but with the right preparation, you can protect your investment and keep tenants happy. Inspect Heating Systems Ensure boilers and heating systems are serviced before winter hits. A well-maintained heating system reduces the risk of breakdowns and keeps tenants comfortable. Check Insulation and Draughts Inspect windows, doors, and loft spaces for any draughts or gaps. Proper insulation not only prevents heat loss but also lowers energy bills for tenants. Gutter and Roof Maintenance Clear out gutters and check the roof for loose tiles or potential leaks. This prevents water damage and avoids costly repairs later. Protect Pipes from Freezing Insulate exposed pipes and advise tenants to keep heating on at a minimum during very cold periods to prevent burst pipes. Outdoor Area Checks Ensure pathways and driveways are safe from ice and debris. Providing tenants with grit or salt for icy conditions shows you’re proactive. Effective Tenant Communication Maintaining a good relationship with your tenants is crucial, especially during winter. Here are some tips: ● Provide a Winter Checklist Share a simple checklist with tenants outlining steps to protect the property, such as bleeding radiators or keeping vents clear. ● Emergency Contact Information Ensure tenants know how to reach you or your property management team in case of urgent issues. ● Routine Property Checks Arrange mid-tenancy inspections to identify potential issues early. Tenants will appreciate your proactive approach. FAQs: Winter Property Management Q: What should tenants do if the heating fails? A: Encourage tenants to report issues immediately. A reliable emergency repair service can resolve problems quickly. Q: Are landlords responsible for clearing snow or ice? A: While not legally required, ensuring pathways are safe shows you care about tenant safety and can reduce liability risks. Q: How can I prevent damp or mould in winter? A: Advise tenants to keep the property ventilated, even in winter, and use dehumidifiers if necessary. Regular inspections can help spot early signs. Partner with Cairn for Stress-Free Winter Management Managing properties in winter doesn’t have to be difficult. At Cairn, we provide expert property management services to ensure your properties stay in top condition and your tenants remain satisfied. Want professional support this winter? Contact Cairn to learn more about our landlord services.
Estate Agency
Preparing Your Property for Sale in 2025
Preparing Your Property for Sale in 2025 When it comes to selling your property, preparation is key. With 2025 just around the corner, now is the perfect time to take actionable steps to ensure your property not only attracts buyers but secures the best possible price. Whether you’re a seasoned property owner or selling for the first time, our guide will help you maximise your property’s value and stay ahead of market trends. Understand the 2025 Property Market The property market is ever-changing, and understanding what to expect in 2025 can give you an edge. Recent data suggests that energy-efficient homes and properties with modern amenities will remain high on buyers’ wish lists. Additionally, the easing of mortgage rates is likely to increase buyer demand, creating a competitive market. Staying informed about local trends in your area, such as those in Glasgow’s property market, can help you position your property effectively. Top Tips to Prepare Your Property for Sale Here’s how you can make your home stand out: Boost Pavement Appeal First impressions matter. Tidy up the garden, repaint the front door, and ensure the exterior is clean and inviting. Adding plants or outdoor lighting can give your property an instant facelift. Declutter and Depersonalise A clutter-free home helps potential buyers envision themselves living there. Remove personal items and excess furniture to create a neutral, welcoming space. Address Repairs and Maintenance Fix minor issues like dripping taps, squeaky doors, or cracked tiles. These small updates demonstrate that your property has been well cared for and save buyers from worrying about immediate repairs. Upgrade for Value Consider affordable updates that yield high returns, such as a fresh coat of paint, modernising fixtures, or installing energy-efficient appliances. Properties with high EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) ratings are increasingly popular. Stage Your Home Professional staging can highlight your home’s best features and create a welcoming atmosphere. Even simple touches like fresh flowers or warm lighting can make a big difference. Market Your Property Effectively Partnering with a trusted estate agent, like Cairn, ensures your property receives the exposure it deserves. From professional photography to targeted listings, Cairn specialises in showcasing properties to the right buyers. FAQs: Preparing Your Property for Sale Q: How long before selling should I start preparing? A: Ideally, start at least 2-3 months before listing your property. This allows time for decluttering, repairs, and marketing preparations. Q: Does an energy-efficient home sell better? A: Yes, buyers are increasingly prioritising energy efficiency. Homes with high EPC ratings often sell faster and for a higher price. Q: Should I invest in big renovations before selling? A: Focus on cost-effective updates that add visible value. Full-scale renovations may not always yield a return on investment. Selling a property in 2025 doesn’t have to be daunting. By taking these steps and partnering with an experienced team like Cairn, you can achieve a stress-free sale and maximise your property’s value. Ready to sell? Contact Cairn Estate Agency today to get started!
Tenants
Your Essential Safety Tips for Settling into Student Life
Your Essential Safety Tips for Settling into Student Life Settling into your new place can be a brilliant adventure, and we at Cairn know just how exciting it is to set up home and dive into student life! To help you feel right at home, we’ve pulled together some top tips to keep things secure and running smoothly. Whether you’re in an HMO or a private let, these pointers will help you enjoy your new space safely. Get to Know Your Neighbourhood Before you’re buried in books or off to the pub, take a bit of time to wander around your area. Spot those handy essentials, like your local shop, pharmacy, and the quickest way to get back late from campus. A little local knowledge goes a long way, especially on rainy days! Get Familiar with Your Security Bits and Bobs Cairn properties are all set up with security measures, so make sure you know how everything works. Give those locks and secure entry systems a quick check when you move in, and make a habit of locking up even if you’re just popping out. If you’re sharing, it’s a good shout to get everyone on the same page for locking up and keeping things safe. Stash Your Valuables It’s easy to forget about valuables when you’re rushing out, but try to keep electronics and important items away from windows or spots where they’re easy to spot. A wee lockbox for documents and gadgets is a solid investment for peace of mind. Fire Safety First Fire safety is a top priority at Cairn, especially in student and HMO properties. Make sure you know the fire escape routes and test smoke alarms regularly (better safe than sorry!). Keep a fire extinguisher handy, and avoid overloading power outlets with all your devices. Mind Who You Bring Around Student life is full of new faces, and getting to know other tenants can be great. Just be wise about who you invite over, especially if they’re new to you. Trustworthy company is key, and keeping doors locked to protect your shared spaces is a smart move. Have a Few Emergency Contacts Ready It’s always a good idea to have emergency numbers saved and a list on hand in your flat. This includes local contacts, your landlord or property manager’s details, and a few neighbours or pals who live nearby. Report Repairs as Soon as You Spot Them Cairn is quick to support maintenance issues, but it’s always helpful if you report anything amiss right away. A loose lock or broken window? Visit the report a repair section on our website—our team will be on it to keep your place secure. Your Safety Matters to Cairn We’re here to make sure your student experience is safe, secure, and enjoyable. If you have any questions or need support, don’t hesitate to reach out to Cairn. Let us lend a hand—get in touch with Cairn today!
