London’s property market, while lucrative, is also highly competitive and requires agents to move fast when closing a sale or finding a tenant for their clients. At such times, having a property that stands out by offering more value through stylish interiors and attractive furnishings can be a strategy for success.
According to a Rightmove study, furnished properties in the UK capital rent 21% faster on average than unfurnished units, commanding a premium of up to 24%. When comparing units of similar size and layouts in the same neighbourhood or development, furnished properties sell for up to 15% more.
However, achieving such results requires a deeper understanding of decor and design ideas, along with thoughtful furnishings. Here’s a five-part checklist we’ve put together to help you close faster.
Part 1: Spot the slow movers
Sometimes, even new units with modern specifications may not sell quickly or within the client’s timeline. Adding stylish furniture with new appliances and tasteful artwork can help generate more viewings and buyer interest for these otherwise slow-moving properties. Recently, our team delivered tailored furniture packs and decor themes for the agent of a prestigious developer in Covent Garden. As a result, the two vacant apartments were both sold in just over a week.
Part 2: Maximising rental and sales value
Whether you are selling or renting a property for your client, the right furniture can create an instant connection with potential buyers and tenants looking for a move-in-ready home. At InStyle Direct, we have a track record of delivering up to and sometimes more than 40% higher returns to landlords who invest in our design-led furniture packs. When a private landlord in South Kensington approached us, we offered a turnkey solution that increased the monthly rent from £3,400 to £4,800 (41%) in just one week.
Part 3: One-stop service for overseas and busy clients
Many landlords with buy-to-let (BTL) investments in London live overseas and expect their agents to manage the entire furnishing and lettings process remotely after the budget approval. Our consolidated service takes care of everything from design to delivery, installation, waste removal and even aftercare. By handling everything in-house, we help agents focus on listings and viewings rather than coordinating with contractors and third-party vendors.
Part 4: Matching style with strategy
Landlords can have different rental strategies. For example, short-let properties such as Airbnbs and holiday homes may require flexible furniture with ample storage and durability. Similarly, long-term rental homes may need to prioritise comfort with neutral tones and layered design concepts. InStyle Direct caters to diverse rental needs, and we can tailor our furniture packs and design themes to match your client’s rental strategy.
Part 5: Pay attention to details to close deals quickly
While marketing unfurnished or empty properties can be a challenge for agents, simply piecing together furniture isn’t the correct approach either. For a home to stand out to buyers and tenants, it is essential for all the details, including the finishing touches, colour scheme, artwork and accessories, to blend seamlessly. From furnishing to interior design, stylish window dressings and complete refurbishments, we offer an end-to-end service that helps agents sell and let properties faster.
Why choose InStyle Direct?
We also completed the revamp of an outdated four-bedroom residence into a stylish three-bedroom layout, resulting in a more than 100% increase in rent. Our designers have also worked on furnishing multiple units for developers and agents to achieve quick results. While our success stories are a testament to our stellar track record, we help agents deliver higher-value sales and rentals to their clients. Contact us for a quick quote about our services.
