We mapped out all 27 of our regular business processes and one by one we are looking at how we can improve each one. Which technologies are available, when efficiencies can be made and where we can offer more sustainable/environmentally friendly solutions. The first one we looked at was our tenant finding process. How to give both property owners, existing tenants and prospective tenants “the greatest rental experience in NZ”. Here’s a brief look at the changes we made;
- Property Readiness – Work it, work it…
We work with the existing occupants (either owner/tenants) to ensure that the property is “ready”, decluttered and we also have a small amount of props (throws, plants, jugs, towels and fruit) to add some flair and colour.
- Adverts – Attract interest early
Our adverts give prospective tenants enough information about the property to be confident enough to apply in advance of the viewing (not mandatory of course).
- We stand-out – We use our own template frame with a logo in order to stand out from other adverts
- We only use professional photography
- We have embraced technology and have a 3D walkthrough on all listings (where permission is granted) in order to showcase the property.
- Viewing – Get close and personal
All attendees interested must book in for one of our twice weekly viewings and we keep in touch. They receives a links, texts and phone call reminder to attend and meet us! During the small viewing we CHAT. We establish who would like to proceed quickly. By using our 2 person team structure coupled with evening working it means the PM can be at the viewing and whilst their partner at the office will following-up and starting to process applications for the interested parties. All this can happen within 30 minutes of the viewing and it does!
- Instant Feedback – Faster approvals
Contact with the property owner enables faster approvals. After every viewing, from the viewing, the owner receives a video about how the viewing went and when to expect completed applications.
- Strategic Planning – As per the plan!
At the end of each week, we have a quick report that summarises the week of the campaign and identifies the pre-agreed strategy for the following week for the owner. We have a 4-week strategic plan for every listing (which aligns with a tenant’s notice period). The customised plan includes changes, tweaks and incentives to keep the campaign hot!
We’re so happy that this simple but effective idea has been recognised and as such we are proud to have been announced amongst the finalists in the 2022 Westpac Awards for Excellence in Innovation.
