Early autumn is one of the busiest times for house letting. According to the Association of Rental and Letting Agents (ARLA) the supply of rented residential properties is outstripping the availability of tenants, with 80 per cent of its members seeing an increase in homes coming on the market because they can’t be sold.

However, the recession has resulted in more professionals picking the letting option as they struggle to get on the property ladder. With so much competition for high end tenants, it is vital that your property to rent has the wow factor.

Home cleaning and services experts ServiceMaster has some handy tips for stress-free letting:

Is the grass trimmed? Does the lawn look green, healthy and inviting? First impressions count, so outside the property should look as respectable as possible.

Once you have attracted potential tenants through the front door, visualise yourself in their position. All tenants want the same thing; a tidy, well-ordered house, filled with light, space and storage and the ability to see themselves living there. Experts suggest de-cluttering and removing any unwanted junk.

A thorough clean is essential and although this can often be seen as a chore, landlords who achieve this to a high standard will stand above competition. This will also brighten rooms and make them appear bigger as well as giving the impression that the house has been cared for and can be well-maintained.

Finally, those small touches that can make a big difference. For example, eliminate any unpleasant smells, let the sun in and give as much light as possible, and wash windows inside and out.

To find your nearest ServiceMaster service provider visit www.merrymaids.co.uk, www.trugreen.co.uk orwww.servicemasterclean.co.uk.