Property is always a good capital investment. The property market usually remains on an upward trajectory, so as long as you are willing to take a long-term view it is pretty easy to make money. Investing in property can also generate income when you let out a buy-to-let unit to tenants.

Because there are so many different types of tenants out there, you do need to consider which market you are targeting. Different tenants will expect different fixtures and fittings and if you decide to target the professional market, your rental units should appeal to high-end tastes. So how should you fit out a rental unit aimed at more exacting tastes?

One of the decisions you need to make is whether to let your property out on a short-term vacation let basis, or work at attracting a long-term tenant. There are pros and cons both ways, but if you decide to go with the vacation let option, be aware that your property will be subjected to a lot of wear and tear, which means carpets and furnishings will need to be replaced more often.

Carpets are not always the best choice in a rental property. You may be better off looking at more expensive types of flooring if you want to attract more affluent tenants, although distributing a few choice rugs here and there will be a nice touch. Solid wood flooring is a good choice as it can be sanded down in the event of damage. Polished concrete is also extremely hard wearing and can look very attractive in modern properties. For bathrooms and kitchens, look at ceramic, natural stone or marble tiles: all three are resistant to water and very attractive.

Business executives looking for short-term lets may prefer renting a fully furnished unit. The same applies if you are marketing at the more affluent vacation market. In this instance, it is essential that you invest in the right quality of furniture. There is nothing wrong with Ikea, but it won’t be a good fit if you want to appeal to the high-end market – they will expect to see bespoke designer pieces rather than plastic chairs and flat-pack furniture. If you go down the unfurnished route, the only things you need to worry about are installing suitable kitchens and bathrooms.

Kitchens and bathrooms need to be stylish, sophisticated, and packed full of the latest high-end appliances. Look at granite or marble counter tops, solid wood cabinets, gorgeous lighting and extra appliances such as wine coolers, espresso machines and the like. Your tenants will expect the best of the best – and be willing to pay extra for it – so indulge their tastes and don’t be afraid of spending money on designer brands.

There is a lot to think about before you let out a property for commercial gain, but don’t forget to prepare a full property inventory using hertsinventories.co.uk to protect your assets. If you don’t, you may belatedly discover that some of your more expensive pieces of furniture have gone missing at the end of a let.