Detroit Move-In Specials: Zillow’s Data on Rental Concessions

Struggling to fill a vacant rental? You're not alone. In 2024, over a third of U.S. landlords used upfront incentives to attract tenants.

But is this strategy right for your Detroit rental properties? Will Move-In specials help you lower vacancies? Are your competitors already offering them? And if so, what kinds of incentives are most effective?

To answer these questions, we went straight to Zillow for their latest data on rental concessions in 2024 and 2025—both nationally and in Metro Detroit. What we found might surprise you, but it also provides a solid foundation for crafting Move-In specials that truly make an impact.

Detroit's Rental Market: The Current Landscape

The Detroit metro area has seen a significant shift in rental dynamics over the past year. What was once a landlord-friendly market has evolved into a more competitive environment where property managers like us have to work harder to attract and retain tenants.

As of May 2025, 35.1% of rentals on Zillow nationally offered concessions—and Detroit ranks among the metros where this percentage has increased year-over-year.

The February 2025 market report revealed a telling statistic: Detroit experienced a 3.6% quarterly increase in rental vacancy rates. This rise in available units has created a buyer's market for renters, forcing property owners to sweeten the deal if they want to stand out from the competition.

Why Detroit Landlords Are Embracing Move-In Specials

An increase in vacancy rates doesn't necessarily indicate a weak market—it often reflects new inventory coming online and seasonal fluctuations.

However, it does mean landlords can no longer rely solely on location and basic amenities to attract tenants.

More than a third of Detroit rental listings now offer some form of concession, representing the highest share since early 2021.

This surge isn't just about desperation—it's a strategic response to market conditions and renter expectations.

Most Popular Move-In Specials in Detroit

Detroit landlords are getting creative with their concessions, but certain types consistently prove more effective than others.

Based on Zillow’s current market data, here are the most common move-in specials being offered:

Top Concession Types

The most effective specials here all share one common trait: they reduce upfront costs for renters.

This approach works particularly well in Detroit, where affordability remains a top concern for many tenants.

What Makes These Specials Work

Weeks of Free Rent: This remains the gold standard of move-in incentives. Whether it's "first month free" or "two weeks free," this concession provides immediate, tangible value that renters can easily calculate.

Fee Waivers: Application fees, administrative fees, and pet deposits can add hundreds to move-in costs. Waiving these charges removes barriers and makes your property more accessible to budget-conscious renters.

Flexible Security Deposits: Reducing or eliminating security deposits can be the deciding factor for renters who have limited cash available for move-in expenses.

Detroit vs. National Trends: A Detailed Comparison

Now let’s take a look at how Detroit compares to national trends.

Market Comparison Overview

Detroit's trends closely mirror national patterns, but still sits at the lower end of the national average.

This isn’t just an issue here–it’s affecting metro areas across the country.

What Detroit Renters Actually Want

While Zillow told us that comprehensive Detroit-specific preference data remains limited, regional and national research provides valuable insights into renter priorities more generally.

Here’s what renters want most when it comes to move-in specials:

Renter Priority Analysis

Key Takeaways for Detroit Landlords

So, to sum it all up, here’s what the data tells us about how to craft effective move-in offerings:

1. Focus on Affordability

Prioritize incentives that reduce upfront costs. Free rent periods, waived fees, and reduced deposits consistently outperform amenity upgrades or luxury perks.

2. Stay Competitive

With over 35% of Detroit rentals offering concessions, not providing incentives puts you at a significant disadvantage. Monitor competitor offerings and match or exceed them slightly.

3. Calculate True Costs

While offering free rent might seem expensive, consider the cost of extended vacancy. One month of free rent is less expensive than two months of vacancy.

4. Market Timing Matters

Launch aggressive move-in specials during traditionally slower rental periods to maintain occupancy year-round.

5. Communicate Value Clearly

Make sure your marketing clearly communicates the dollar value of your incentives. "Save $1,200 on move-in costs" is more compelling than vague promises of "great deals."

Moving Forward with Confidence

Zillow’s data clearly shows that landlords who embrace strategic concessions are better positioned to minimize vacancy periods and attract quality tenants.

The key lies not just in offering incentives, but in choosing the right ones. By focusing on upfront cost reduction and maintaining competitive awareness, Detroit landlords can turn move-in specials from a necessary expense into a powerful tool for property success.

As the market continues to evolve, staying informed about trends and renter preferences will help you adapt your strategies and maintain healthy occupancy rates.

Remember, the cost of a good move-in special is almost always less than the cost of an extended vacancy.

Want to minimize your vacancy periods without the headache? Our logical approach to property management uses data-driven systems to achieve the best investment results for our clients.