By Tony Booth

This is even more important while the housing market is in its downturn state ... satisfying (and whenever possible exceeding) tenant expectations will usually produce the desired effect.

There are five key issues that ground floor apartment owners need to address, which collectively can enhance a property and make it that much more attractive to would-be tenants. Moreover, if dealt with professionally, moderate but essential improvements can attract a wider group, even those that ordinarily wouldn't even consider renting a ground floor home.

1. SECURITY

There is a perception amongst the buying and renting fraternity that ground floor properties are vulnerable to being broken into. While this is not always an accurate perception, it is a matter that landlords should deal with so that would-be tenants feel more confident. These days an alarm system is at the top of tenant 'wants', so buying a property with one already installed is an advantage. Window locks, spyholes and good quality door locks are relatively cheap to install and I would recommend adding passive infrared (PIR) security lighting to vulnerable back gardens.