Better-presented properties don’t just look nicer. They perform better - on every measurable metric.
This isn’t just opinion. It’s data. It’s behavioural psychology. It’s tenant experience. And thanks to leaders like Elaine Penhaul of Lemon & Lime Interiors - our recent guest on The Viking Chat - it’s becoming increasingly clear that property presentation is one of the most underutilised tools in the private rented sector (PRS).
The Science of First Impressions
We know it instinctively: first impressions count. But the science goes deeper. Studies in behavioural psychology have shown that people form a judgment about a space within seven seconds. And when that space is a property listing - especially online - you don’t get a second chance.
Elaine reminded us that 95% of homebuyers (and an increasing share of renters) start their search online. Photos are the first point of contact. So when a property is poorly lit, empty, cluttered or uninspiring, prospective tenants swipe past. That’s a void period waiting to happen.
But when a space is well-dressed, flowing, emotionally engaging and appropriately styled for its audience? Engagement rises. Viewings increase. Offers come in faster. And voids shrink.
Design Isn’t Decoration - It’s Strategy
One of the most powerful takeaways from our conversation with Elaine is that staging isn’t just for sales. In fact, it’s just as crucial - if not more so - in the PRS, especially when you're managing multiple units, diverse tenant profiles or aiming for long-term stability.
Tenants, just like buyers, respond emotionally to space. They want to see themselves living in it - not just see the square footage. Good design, smart layouts, thoughtful lighting and subtle styling all work together to make a property feel like a home.
And when tenants feel at home, they stay longer. They pay on time. They treat the space with more respect.
The Maintenance Multiplier
It’s not just about cushions and colour palettes. At base, we’ve seen time and again that well-maintained properties outperform their peers. Here’s how:
• Faster lets: Clean, freshly painted, well-repaired homes let quicker. Period.
• Higher rents: Modern, updated finishes attract higher-paying tenants.
• Lower churn: Tenants are more likely to renew when the property is kept in top condition.
• Fewer complaints: Proactive maintenance reduces frustration and service requests.
• Asset protection: Regular upkeep preserves long-term capital value.
Add presentation and maintenance together, and you’ve got a winning formula. That’s why we advise all our landlords to invest in presentation and preventative upkeep — not just at re-let, but as an ongoing strategy.
PBSA & BTR: The Institutional Edge
These principles apply even more powerfully in large-scale settings. In Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) and Build to Rent (BTR) schemes, presentation and maintenance aren’t just part of the offer - they are the offer.
Well-designed communal spaces, high-quality furnishings, integrated technology and consistent brand standards drive occupancy and retention. And as tenants increasingly expect hospitality-level experience from their rental home, providers who neglect presentation risk falling behind.
base: Your Partner in Performance
We don’t just find tenants. We don’t just manage compliance. We act as the central hub for your asset’s performance — from strategy and marketing through to design, maintenance and beyond.
When a landlord works with base, they gain:
• Access to trusted staging, design and maintenance professionals
• Proactive recommendations to increase yield and tenant satisfaction
• Transparent reporting and advice that protects long-term value
• A partner who sees the full picture, not just the monthly rent
We’re not just lettings experts. We’re property performance specialists. And we’re proud to bring insights from professionals like Elaine Penhaul to the heart of how we operate.
Final Thought: If You Want Better Results, Start With Better Presentation
The numbers are clear. The experience is proven. And the opportunity is waiting.
If you’re a landlord who wants to protect your investment, elevate your property and outperform the market - the first step isn’t always marketing.
It’s presentation.
Let’s talk about how we can help you stage, maintain and manage your property for maximum success.
