In New Zealand’s competitive rental market, finding quality tenants is gold—but keeping them is where the real value lies.
Constantly changing tenants can result in more stress, longer vacancy periods and extra maintenance, as well as additional costs for advertising and vetting new tenants.
If you own an investment property, it’s vital you find long-term, reliable tenants to help your bottom line.
So, how do you keep the quality tenants? It’s not just about the property—it’s about the relationship.
Practical tips for retaining good tenants
1. Stay on top of maintenance
Promptly dealing with repairs—especially heating, plumbing and appliances—shows tenants you value their comfort. A well-maintained home signals respect and keeps small issues from becoming big ones.
2. Fair rent reviews
Raising rent is part of the game, but do it thoughtfully. Sudden, sharp increases can drive good tenants away. A modest, market-aligned rent review, paired with strong communication, goes a long way.
3. Communicate clearly and respectfully
Whether you manage your property yourself or use a professional, responsiveness matters. Answer queries in a timely manner, and keep tenants in the loop about inspections, upgrades or changes.
4. Offer upgrades or improvements
Sometimes small touches make a big difference—curtains, heat pumps, a fresh coat of paint, or even allowing pets can be incentives for great tenants to stay long-term.
5. Respect privacy and notice periods
Tenants are more likely to renew when they feel respected. Following the correct notice periods for inspections, giving heads-up about tradespeople, and sticking to a reasonable inspection schedule builds trust.
6. Consider longer fixed-term tenancies
If you've secured quality tenants, offering a longer fixed term can benefit both parties by providing greater stability and peace of mind. After the initial 12-month period, you might propose renewing the agreement for another 12 months—or even longer. Just be sure the new agreement includes provisions for regular rent reviews and routine property inspections to keep everything on track.
When tenants leave—don’t burn the bridge
Sometimes, even good tenants move on. Work to end the tenancy on a positive note. A smooth handover, returned bond, and genuine thanks can encourage them to recommend the property—or even return in the future.
Use a property manager who prioritises tenant retention
A great property manager doesn’t just collect rent—they build rapport with tenants, conduct regular proactive maintenance, and act as a buffer when difficult conversations are needed. Here at EVES, our Property Managers prioritise excellent communication, ensuring a hassle-free experience for tenants and landlords alike.
Happy tenants = healthy investment
At the end of the day, good tenants are your most valuable asset. Treat them well, and they’ll likely return the favour by staying longer, looking after your property, and paying on time.
Need help keeping your investment property running smoothly? Our experienced property management team can help you attract, support, and retain top-quality tenants. Get in touch for a no-obligation chat about how we can add value to your rental property: evespropertymanagement.co.nz
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