A Landlord’s Pre-Listing Checklist

So you’re getting ready to put your home on the market for rent? Girl, listen… before you hand over those keys, there are a few things you definitely want to check off the list. Think of this like the friend-to-friend cheat sheet I wish someone gave me when I started renting out properties.

1. Do a Walk-Through (Like You’re the Tenant)

I promise you, when you walk through your home as if you’re the renter, you start seeing things differently. Open the cabinets, flush the toilets, test the outlets. Pretend you’re moving in tomorrow. Anything that feels “ehh…”? Fix it.

2. Check for Safety Issues

Safety = liability, so this one’s major.

Make sure:

• All smoke and CO detectors work

• Locks and deadbolts are solid

• Railings, stairs, and walkways are safe

6. Freshen Up the Exterior

Curb appeal is not just for sales!

A mowed lawn, trimmed shrubs, pressure-washed driveway, and clean entryway go a long way. First impressions truly set expectations for tenants.

7. Gather All the Manuals, Keys & Access Info

Nothing’s worse than a tenant texting you at 11pm asking, “How do I reset the thermostat?”

Before you list:

• Put together appliance manuals

• Labendows open and close properly

Trust me, tenants notice this stuff immediately.

3. Get the Home Professionally Cleaned

Not “I cleaned it.” I mean professionally cleaned.

Baseboards, vents, appliances, the works. A clean home photographs better, shows better, and rents faster. And it sets the tone for how you expect it to be returned.

4. Handle Any Maintenance You’ve Been Avoiding

We all have that “I’ll get to it later” list. Now’s the time.

Loose doorknobs, leaky faucets, chipped paint, that one weird light switch, all of it.

Small issues turn into big headaches if a tenant discovers them first.

5. Neutralize and Simplify the Space

If the walls are bright red or lime green… it might be time to say goodbye.

Neutral = better photos + wider appeal + fewer complaints.l keys

• Provide garage codes, gate codes, and Wi-Fi details

• Note trash/recycling days

You’ll thank yourself later.

8. Review Your Insurance

Landlord insurance ≠ homeowner insurance.

Double-check your policy to make sure you’re covered for tenant-related incidents. It’s the easiest way to protect yourself.

9. Decide on Your Pet Policy

Be honest, pets can bring amazing tenants, but not every property is pet-friendly.

Figure it out upfront so you’re not negotiating last minute.

10. Get a Pro Property Manager (Hi, That’s Us!)

Managing a rental is a job — and a full-time one at that.

Platinum Property Management can:

• Market your home

• Screen tenants

• Handle showings

• Manage maintenance

• Collect rent

• Protect your investment

It’s literally what we do all day, every day.