In a modern complex, two apartments are available for rent. The layouts are the same, and both units are well-maintained. Although the views differ, one is not inferior to the other. Yet one apartment is quickly rented and occupied, while the other remains sadly vacant. What makes the difference?

What's wrong?

Could it be haunted? Is there a leak, a hole in the wall, or an infestation? Maybe there's an unpleasant smell or noisy neighbours? When two identical apartments are available for rent, but one stays vacant, there must be something wrong with it. However, I can tell you that's not the case. It's a great place to live. But there's definitely something wrong.

Once Upon a Time...

I know that there's nothing wrong with the apartment in question because I was once invited for a rental listing appointment with the owner. Since I was already familiar with this building complex and managed several apartments there, I was eager to take on the rental task. Because I knew the building and the apartments, I was aware of the pros and cons of these units and which target groups to approach. I made a suitable proposal to the owner for the rental approach, including the rental price. However, the owner had overestimated the value of the property and was convinced that the price should be much higher. I understand this. We all think our homes are our castles and therefore worth a lot. But there's a difference between emotional value and market value. That's why it's useful to consult an objective rental agent. I patiently explained all this to the owner during a good conversation, expressing my understanding of his expectations and presenting my market-based arguments for a fair price. Yet, the owner refused to lower his expectations and asking price. Unfortunately, this ended our collaboration before it even began because I don't do things I don't believe in.

Golden Promises

Since I was responsible for renting and managing other apartments in the same complex, I kept track of the rental process of the overpriced unit. After a month, it was listed for the higher price the owner desired, with another agent. Coincidentally, I was renting out another apartment in the same complex at the price I considered reasonable at that same time. While “my” apartment was rented to happy tenants within two weeks, the overpriced one remained vacant. Three months later, when nothing had happened with this overpriced apartment, I asked the owner what he thought had happened. He replied with a very disappointed response, and the advertisement for the apartment subsequently disappeared from the internet. Well, there are always agents who tell you what you want to hear and promise you the moon. But the reality is that they seldom deliver.

Honesty Isn't Always Nice

I'm well aware of the difference between how an owner views their rental property and how I do as a rental agent. That's why I believe it's important to discuss this first. I assume you didn't ask for my services without a reason. Isn't the point that I, with my expertise and experience, help you step off cloud number nine and into reality? A reality like that of the two apartments. Where one owner enjoys regular income, while the other not only loses months of rent but also ends up heavily disappointed. Would you like a realistic view of your possibilities? Contact me here.