12 features quality tenants want in a rental property

When it comes to rental property success, the quality of your tenant matters just as much as the quality of your investment.

Great tenants pay rent on time, respect the home, stay longer and make ownership far less stressful. And while you can’t control every factor, you can control how appealing your property is to the people you want living in it.

Quality tenants have choices. They compare listings, inspect carefully and make decisions quickly. The more your property aligns with what they value, the faster you’ll secure the right tenant and the better your investment will perform.

Here are 12 features that consistently attract quality tenants.

1. A reliable dishwasher

A dishwasher is no longer a luxury – it’s an expectation. But it’s not enough to simply have one. An old or unreliable appliance that breaks down regularly creates frustration, call-outs and unnecessary expense. A modern, efficient dishwasher adds everyday convenience and signals that the property is well cared for.

2. Effective heating and cooling

Adequate heating is a legal requirement under the Healthy Homes Standards, and tenants expect comfort year-round. Heat pumps are now standard in many homes, and cooling in summer is increasingly valued. In larger homes and new builds, tenants often expect heating in more than just the living area – particularly in the master bedroom.

3. Storage that works

Built-in wardrobes, walk-in robes and practical storage spaces make daily life easier. Tenants with good furniture and belongings want a home that accommodates them. A lack of storage can be a deal-breaker, especially for families and long-term renters.

4. More than one bathroom

For families and professional households, an ensuite or second bathroom is highly desirable. While a single bathroom may be fine for a studio or one-bedroom apartment, homes designed for multiple occupants are expected to offer more flexibility.

5. A lock-up garage

A garage offers more than parking. Many tenants use it for storage, bikes, tools or recreational gear. Even when vehicles aren’t parked inside, the security and extra space are highly valued.

6. Spotless presentation

Tenants notice what’s not theirs. Dirt, grime or lingering odours create an immediate negative impression. Professional cleaning – including carpet steam-cleaning – before viewings signals pride of ownership and sets the standard for how the home should be treated.

7. Good overall condition

Peeling paint, worn flooring and visible neglect turn quality tenants away. A well-maintained property attracts better applicants and supports higher rent. Regular updates also help meet your obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act.

8. Easy-care gardens

Most tenants don’t want high-maintenance outdoor spaces. Simple, low-water landscaping makes a property more appealing and reduces ongoing issues. Easy-care gardens show consideration for tenants’ time and lifestyle.

9. Pet-friendly options

Pets are part of modern life. Many responsible tenants are also pet owners, and being open to pets can significantly widen your pool of quality applicants. With the right landlord insurance in place, concerns around pet damage can be managed.

10. Gas cooking

While not essential, gas cooktops are popular with many tenants who enjoy cooking. It’s a small feature that can set your property apart in competitive markets.

11. Adequate parking

Depending on the property type, tenants often require space for one or two vehicles. Secure or off-street parking is a strong drawcard, particularly for households with multiple drivers.

12. Fixed-term tenancies

Quality tenants value security. A fixed-term tenancy offers peace of mind and stability, encouraging longer stays and reducing turnover. For landlords, it also provides rental certainty.

A well-presented, thoughtfully equipped property doesn’t just rent faster – it attracts tenants who treat it as a home, not just a stopover.

If vacancy is a concern, you may also find “Five mistakes that keep your property vacant longer” helpful, particularly around pricing and presentation.

How we can help

Preparing a rental property for the market can feel overwhelming. We help landlords identify practical improvements, position properties to attract quality tenants and reduce costly vacancy. Whether you’re preparing your first rental or refining an existing portfolio, we’re here to make the process clearer, easier and more effective.