If there's one thing we hate here at Clear Property Investment it's void properties.

However we can't ignore the subject completely because, as we all know, it does happen. What we can do though is prepare against it in the best way possible. And that's why we've come up with a list of tips to bear in mind if you want to avoid voids.

Apart from the obvious such as a lick of paint and making sure the property is maintained, there are further steps you can take to secure tenant and keep your bank balance looking healthy. These include:

Be Proactive - after all it's your money that's at stake here. Why not offer to drop the rent slightly to make your property more competitive with rival properties in the area? Alternatively, you could provide an incentive to sway indecisive prospective tenants eg a free food liquidizer/bottle of champagne etc.

Consider Unfurnished - Not every prospective tenant wants a furnished property. And by purchasing a sofa, bed, dining table etc you'll be forking out thousands of pounds when you've already put a large dent in your bank balance by buying the property in the first place. Anyhow, when it comes down to it, the difference in the rent between a furnished and unfurnished flat is not remarkable.

Myra Blaik, Operations Director, Clear Group, said: "If you are going to go down the furnished route, don't bother buying quality, long-lasting items. Instead, go for a modern look from a cheaper retailer who produces flat-pack furniture. I'm thinking Homebase, B & Q, and Ikea here. And please don't get into a right stew by attempting to assemble the products yourself - unless you're a bona fida DIY expert. No, I'd suggest hiring in a specialist who assembles on a regular basis. Believe me, it'll be worth it in the long-run!"

Think HMO - if you live in an area with high student density and your property is large with several bedrooms - or at least room for three tenants - it might be worth considering renting it out as a House of Multiple Occupation (HMO). Check with your local council if you're unsure of the terms. You'll have to pay a fee to register an HMO and it can involve a lot more management than a straight-forward property let. But it can bring prove highly profitable - and not just in the long-run.

For more information on avoiding voids contact our Clear team at any of our Scottish offices.

View other news from July 2010