How to find renters

[Dustin Abner]

I'm curious, how/where do you advertise for renters whether it be a room rental or home? What platforms or pathways for you use? I'm worried about finding renters, honestly. 

[Jade Miali Everett]

As someone who has worked in more than seven different states I have to say that every market is different. Before you go and pay for ANY kind of advertising, make sure that you're utilizing all of these free sites where you can list:

- Zillow

- Avail (Realtor.com network)

- Apartments.com (they have a bunch of websites under their brand... hotpads, etc.)

- Zumper

- Facebook Marketplace

- Craigslist

- Redfin Rentals

- Rentler

- State Housing Search Sites (some states run free housing search portals)

Next, I would take a look at the use of your property. Is it a student rental? Then you need to be putting flyers up at the local university and reaching out via social media. Is it conventional use? I'd look at your property's strong points and target the audience looking for those things (i.e. you're a half of a mile from the freeway? target commuters, etc.)

Before you spend ANY money on advertising, I'd spend some time in your local Facebook groups and just ask the question of where do local folks find housing? Performing a survey helps you understand whether it's worth spending money on advertising or not. And before you commit to any kind of website like Apartments.com who promise the world, ask to see their analytics for the area and ask yourself if that lines up with what people are telling you about where they found housing.

I've noticed that larger cities tend to lean more towards online advertising and cutting through the many inquiries can be a challenge. I take the time to pre-screen my clients before offering a tour and being sure that I'm spending time only touring applicants that meet my qualification criteria.

If you're having trouble getting people to show up for appointments, also consider adding some layer of automated reminders via text or email to your prospective applicants.

Last, I should highlight that smaller towns are going to need you to network more to get the word out. Signage at the property is important. Spreading the word with the neighbors is important. I usually put flyers up door to door within 1 mile of my property. You can also consider sending out direct mailers to the properties closest to you with a move in special to get people to make the switch.

Feel free to send me a dm if you want to talk through strategy more. I love these kinds of questions and figuring out the best approach. It's what I do!