It's no secret that finding a qualified renter for your property can be a challenging task. With the demand for non-apartment rentals at an all-time high, it's becoming increasingly important to list your rental property on the right platforms to attract the right tenants quickly. To help you in this endeavor, we have compiled a list of the five best websites to list your rental property, along with some valuable tips to maximize your chances of success.
1. Rentals.com
Rentals.com is an excellent platform for listing rental properties with one to four units. Whether you own a single-family home, condo, duplex, or townhome, this website connects you with an audience specifically looking for family-oriented homes to lease. One of the standout features of Rentals.com is its comprehensive online screening process, which includes a universal application, credit, background, and eviction checks. With the ability to add video tours and a user-friendly dashboard, Rentals.com empowers landlords to make informed decisions and streamline the rental process.
2. Rent.com
If you want to target a diverse audience, Rent.com is the perfect choice. While this platform is popular among renters of all ages, it is particularly favored by younger renters who are open to living in various types of properties across different cities in the U.S. By listing your rental property on Rent.com, you gain access to landlord-friendly features such as online applications and tenant screening. Additionally, Rent.com is part of the RentPath network, which allows you to collect rent through their online service once your property is rented.
3. Apartment Guide
Apartment Guide, historically known for apartment hunting, has a dedicated section that highlights house listings to renters looking for something different. By listing your house on Apartment Guide, you gain exposure to more than 15 million potential renters across the RentPath network. The platform offers online application review, tenant screening, rent collection, and a dedicated customer service team to assist you throughout the process.
4. Facebook
Facebook Marketplace provides a local platform for listing your rental property and connects you with people ready to live in your area. It also enables you to share your listing with your social network, leveraging word-of-mouth advertising. While Facebook Marketplace may not offer the same level of qualified renters as specialized rental websites, it can be an effective tool for targeting a specific radius and generating interest within your community.
5. Craigslist
With its massive user base, Craigslist is a popular online marketplace for a wide range of items, including rental properties. Listing your rental property on Craigslist can potentially reach a large number of viewers. However, it is important to be aware that many viewers may not be qualified renters, and there is a risk of encountering scammers. For enhanced security and a more targeted audience, it is advisable to consider using one of the RentPath sites mentioned earlier.
Tips for attracting renters to your listings
Crafting an enticing listing is crucial for attracting potential tenants to your rental property. Here are some tips to help you create a listing that stands out:
Include high-quality pictures or videos
A picture is worth a thousand words, so make sure to capture your property's best angles. Take high-resolution photos that showcase each room and bring in as much natural light as possible to create a bright and inviting atmosphere. Using a tripod can help you achieve steady shots and consider hiring a professional photographer for a polished look. Don't forget to include videos that provide viewers with a virtual walk-through experience.
Highlight the positives in your written description
While it's essential to cover the basic details of your rental property, emphasize the unique features that set it apart. Highlight kitchen appliances, outdoor/parking space, flooring, recent renovations, included amenities, and neighborhood information. By crafting a compelling description, you can create excitement and generate interest among prospective tenants.
With the right listing across multiple platforms, you can significantly increase your chances of finding the perfect tenant for your rental property. Remember, exposure is key, and utilizing these top websites will help you attract the right audience efficiently. Before you know it, you'll have tenants moving in, and you'll be exploring technology options to manage your rental seamlessly.