Unlocking Success: The Top Tips to Get Your Property Rental Ready

So, you wanna turn that shiny investment property into a money-maker, huh? Well, hold your horses—before you slap a “For Rent” sign on the lawn, you’ve gotta make sure your place is actually ready for new tenants. Trust me, first impressions count for everything in the rental game. If you've ever wondered about the secret sauce to prepping your place for a smooth handover and happy tenants, you're in the right spot.

At AspirePeak Properties, we don’t just recommend getting your property rental ready—it’s our standard. Why? Because a truly rental ready unit isn’t just about looking nice; it’s about meeting the minimum standards for housing and passing move-in inspections with flying colors. The reality is, these are the most common issues property managers find during inspections, and they’re not optional—fixing them is required by both the RTDRS (Residential Tenancy Dispute Resolution Service) and housing regulations. Let’s jump into the essential Tips to get your property Rental Ready, so you can boost your chances of landing responsible renters (and keep the headaches to a minimum).

1. Deep Clean Like You Mean It

No, we’re not talking about a quick vacuum and a spray of Febreze. If you want top dollar (and top tenants), you need to go all out. AspirePeak Properties considers deep cleaning non-negotiable, and so should you:

• Kitchen:

  • Clean inside, outside, behind, and under appliances (fridge, stove, dishwasher, microwave).

  • Defrost and scrub the freezer.

  • Wipe down cupboards, countertops, and backsplashes.

  • Degrease the range hood and replace filters if needed.

• Bathrooms:

  • Scrub toilets, tubs, showers, sinks, mirrors, and vanity tops.

  • Clean grout, tiles, and all fixtures until they shine.

  • Don’t forget the medicine cabinet and under the sink.

• Floors & Carpets:

  • Sweep, mop, and vacuum all floors.

  • Deep steam clean carpets (hire a pro if they’re really grubby).

• Windows & Blinds:

  • Wash window panes, tracks, and sills.

  • Dust or replace blinds and wash curtains.

• Walls & Ceilings:

  • Spot clean walls and touch up scuffs with matching paint.

  • Dust ceiling fans and light fixtures.

• Don’t Forget:

  • Clean inside closets and storage spaces.

  • Check and remove cobwebs in every nook and cranny.

    
    

2. All Appliances Must Work—No Exceptions

Nothing sours a new rental relationship faster than a broken dishwasher or a leaky fridge. AspirePeak Properties’ standard is that every appliance must function properly—no exceptions. Plus, it’s a basic requirement for move-in inspections.

• Refrigerator (including icemaker and freezer)

• Stove/Oven (test burners, oven light, and fan)

• Microwave

• Dishwasher

• Washer & Dryer

• Garburator (if you’ve got one)

• Range hood and bathroom fans

  
  

If anything’s busted, fix it or replace it. Tenants notice when you cut corners, and so do inspectors.

3. Keep It Safe: Smoke Detectors, CO Alarms & Fireplaces

Safety isn’t something to gloss over—it's the law, and it’s common sense. In Alberta, and under RTDRS regulations, a property isn’t rental ready unless all life-safety devices are up to code.

• Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors:

  • Test all alarms.

  • Replace batteries or the units themselves if they’re outdated.

• Fire Extinguishers:

  • Make sure one’s handy (and not expired).

• Fireplaces:

  • Get that chimney cleaned (if wood-burning).

  • Test gas fireplaces—ensure the pilot lights and remotes work.

    
    

4. Lighting: Brighten Every Corner

A well-lit home feels safer and more welcoming. Here’s what to do to meet AspirePeak’s and housing standards:

• Replace all burnt-out bulbs (inside AND out).

• Use high-efficiency LED bulbs when possible.

• Clean light fixtures and make sure switches work.

• Check exterior lighting, especially around entrances and walkways.

  
  

5. Doors, Windows, Locks, and Keypads

Security and comfort are non-negotiable, not just for peace of mind but by housing standard. Don’t leave these details to chance:

• Test all door locks, deadbolts, and keypads (change codes between tenants).

• Replace or rekey locks if you haven’t already.

• Open and close every window and door—fix any that stick or don’t latch properly.

• Check window screens for holes; replace or repair as needed.

• Ensure all doors and windows have working locks.

  
  

6. Plumbing—No Leaks, No Drips, No Clogs

Water issues can cause expensive headaches and major tenant complaints. These are the most common items flagged in move-in inspections and must be in perfect order:

• Run every faucet (kitchen, bathroom, laundry)—look for leaks, drips, or weak water pressure.

• Check under sinks for signs of leaks or mold.

• Inspect toilets for running water, leaks at the base, or loose handles.

• Test showers and tubs—fix broken rods, clogged drains, or faulty diverters.

• Ensure exterior taps aren’t leaking and hoses are disconnected before winter.

  
  

7. Heating, Cooling & Furnace: Don’t Leave Tenants in the Cold

Nobody wants to shiver their way through a Calgary winter, and the RTDRS won’t let you rent a unit without heat.

• The furnace has been serviced and filters changed (ideally every 3 months).

• Thermostats are working and programmable if possible.

• Air conditioning units (if present) are clean and functional.

• Vents and cold air returns are dust-free.

• Eavestroughs are clear to prevent water damage.

• Irrigation systems (if any) are winterized and leak-free.

  
  

8. Curb Appeal: Lawn, Snow, and Outdoor Maintenance

First impressions start outside. A tidy exterior says you care about the property—and so should your tenants. It’s also essential for basic safety and compliance.

• Lawn:

  • Mow, edge, and remove weeds.

  • Trim bushes and trees away from walkways and the building.

  • Repair bare patches or holes in the yard.

• Snow & Ice:

  • Clear walkways and driveways (tenants will expect this in winter).

  • Stock up on pet-friendly ice melt.

• Outdoor Features:

  • Check fences, gates, and decks for damage.

  • Make sure exterior lights and doorbells work.

  • Clean up any litter or debris.

    
    

9. No Personal Items Left Behind—Ever!

Don’t leave tenants wondering what to do with your leftover ski boots or your collection of paint cans. Remove all personal items, tools, cleaning supplies, and random junk. A blank slate is best—no exceptions, no excuses, and definitely no “surprise” treasures for your new tenants. AspirePeak Properties doesn’t just recommend this—it’s a must for every property.

10. Final Touches: Details That Matter

• Replace worn-out doorstops, shower rods, or curtain rods.

• Make sure all blinds are working (replace broken ones).

• Provide a full set of keys and/or update digital keypads.

• Leave instruction manuals for major appliances.

• Double-check that mailbox keys and garage remotes are included.

  
  

These touches aren’t just about making the place look good—they’re about showing you care about your tenant’s experience and meeting all minimum standards.

Why This Checklist Is AspirePeak Properties’ Standard

At AspirePeak Properties, we set the bar high not just because we want happy tenants, but because the law and RTDRS standards require it. These aren’t “nice-to-haves”—they’re the bare minimum for a rental-ready property. By following this checklist, you’ll breeze through move-in inspections, avoid costly re-dos, and keep both tenants and inspectors smiling.

FAQs: Tips to Get Your Property Rental Ready

Q: Do I really need to deep clean carpets before renting out my property?

A: Absolutely! Clean carpets make a huge difference in how your property looks and smells. Consider professional cleaning between tenants.

Q: How often should I change furnace filters?

A: Every three months is the standard—think winter, spring, summer, fall. It keeps the air clean and the furnace running efficiently.

Q: Can I leave leftover paint or cleaning supplies for tenants?

A: Nope! Remove all personal items and supplies unless you’ve specifically agreed with your new tenants. Leaving them can create liability and confusion.

Q: What’s the rule for smoke and CO detectors?

A: Test them before every move-in, replace batteries, and swap out units that are older than 10 years (or per local regulations).

Q: Who’s responsible for snow removal and lawn care?

A: That depends on your lease agreement, but you must have the property clear and safe for move-in day. After that, clarify responsibilities in writing.

Conclusion: Raise Your Standard, Raise Your Rent!

Getting your property rental ready isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about setting the standard for a positive landlord-tenant relationship. With AspirePeak Properties’ rental ready checklist, you’ll boost your property’s appeal, meet every legal requirement, and attract tenants who respect your investment. Whether you’re a first-time landlord or a seasoned pro, this checklist will save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress. Remember: a well-prepped property isn’t just nicer—it’s required!