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Commonsense suggestions for your investment property that are often overlooked:

1. Keep your units well maintained: Don't wait for the current tenant to inform you that they're moving before you start doing necessary repairs. You want to show units that are up-to-date and fresh. Prospective tenants may not be able to imagine what you say you may do to a unit and therefore not see the potential value.

2. Wow factor: The addition of bright colours, modern flooring and lighting can go a long way. If your showings don't result in a 'wow' reaction, your unit may need more of this type of attention.

3. Curb appeal: Tenants want to live in a home, not a rental. Does your unit look like a rental - or does it fit into the community?

4. Pre-clean: Get into your unit half-an-hour before the showing. Turn all the lights on, open the blinds, take out the garbage, give the floor a quick wipe if necessary and tidy the kitchen and bathroom - even if the unit is occupied. Most importantly eliminate odours.

5. Extras: When purchasing or renovating an investment property, consider amenities you can promote to tenants - and for which you can possibly charge a premium or at least the maximum rate - such as gas fireplaces, jacuzzi tubs, air conditioning and dishwashers.

Source: Growth Strategies, Brampton, Ont. as seen in Canadian Real Estate Magazine, April 2009, p.49.