How to Make Your Rental Listing Stand Out

Landlords who want their listing to stand out from the crowd need to liaise with their property manager in order to highlight the strengths and special features of the property. By catching the attention of potential tenants, you will be able to draw them in and hopefully queuing up to view the property in more detail.

Include Eye-catching Photos of the House

First impressions of a home often create a lasting impression on prospective tenants. That is why it pays to include eye-catching photos in the listing that will quickly draw them in and encourage them to pick up the phone to find out more. Include clear photos of the front of the property, as well as features in the kitchen, lounge, bathroom(s) and bedrooms.

Highlight Special Features

Does your property include special features that you want to bring to the fore? Fireplaces, granite counters, a swimming pool and vaulted ceiling are very desirable qualities in some locations and will instantly draw the attention of prospective tenants. If your property contains any of these features, make sure you highlight them in the listing.

Avoid All Traces of Negativity

Prospective tenants want to see what will be in it for them if they move into your property. They will not feel tempted to call to make an appointment for a viewing if you have a long list of things that you will not allow. When the property listing has been completed, take a close look back over it with your property manager and remove anything that could detract from the positive qualities you have outlined.

Mention Local Schools/Parks/Amenities

Is your property located right by a school, park or local amenities? If so, make sure to highlight these! Young families who are looking to move will feel more drawn to a property that offers more of a "package deal" for them outside four square walls, that is within walking distance, or a short drive, from local schools, parks and amenities. Include a link to a map of schools, parks and amenities, so that prospective tenants can see the advantages of moving into your property.

Pets Allowed!

Even die-hard pet lovers often shy away from advertising a rental listing to pet owners. Many are afraid that if they allow pets to move in that the tenants will allow their cats or dogs to ruin the property. This is a valid concern. An easy way to address that is to make it clear that while pets are allowed, this is negotiable and must be discussed with the property manager and/or landlord in advance. They should also include an extra pet deposit that will be returned once the tenants have satisfactorily cleaned and vacated the property.

When you are getting ready to list your property, you will want it to stand out from the crowd. Put yourself in a prospective tenants shoes and then feature aspects of your home that you would find appealing if you were about to move in. Liaise closely with your property manager and listen to his suggestions. After all, he has done this all before!

More from this contributor:

How to Stage a Property to Rent.

Should Military Personnel Consider Purchasing a Buy-to Let Property?

What to Look For in a Property Manager.