Get tips on how to prepare your home to be rented out

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Many homeowners are choosing to rent out their homes rather than sell their properties. Terra West Property Management has several tips to help homeowners prepare to rent out their houses.

* Check out the covenants, conditions and restrictions, commonly called CC&Rs. Many homeowners associations prohibit rentals in the community, limit the percentage of rentals or at least require owners to register tenants.

* Landscape the front and backyard, and provide regular landscaping service. Given the weather in Las Vegas, the inability to enjoy a backyard could result in not getting a fair rental value. Plus, landscaping maintenance is ongoing and tenants rarely do an adequate job.

* Interior paint and flooring should be neutral.

* The property should be clean and in good repair. There's one chance to make a good first impression.

* Provide all the appliances -- refrigerator, stove, dishwasher, washer/dryer -- because other landlords will provide them.

* Rental rates need to be competitive with similar properties in the area.