By Joy Gebarah – Real Estate Investor, Kern County
After working in real estate since 2008 and being involved in over $100 million worth of transactions, one thing has always been clear: the best rental properties can sit empty without good marketing. Thankfully, getting maximum exposure doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Here are five effective and affordable ways to market your rental property and attract quality tenants faster:
1. List On Multiple Online Platforms
Today’s tenants are searching online first. Make sure your property is listed on multiple free or low-cost rental websites like Zillow, Apartments.com, Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and HotPads. Each platform you post on increases the number of people who see your listing, dramatically boosting your chances of finding a tenant quickly.
2. Take High-Quality Photos (Even With A Phone)
Photos make or break a listing. Tenants often scroll past ads with poor images. You don't need a professional photographer—modern smartphones can take great photos if you pay attention to lighting and angles. Clean the space thoroughly, open the blinds for natural light, and take wide shots to show the full size of each room. Quality photos can make even a modest rental stand out.
3. Use Eye-Catching Social Media Posts
Posting your rental on social media is free—and very powerful. Create a simple but attractive post with your best photos, a clear description, and rental details like price, location, and move-in date. Ask friends, family, and local groups to share it. Facebook groups for housing in your city can be especially effective for reaching active renters.
4. Install A Simple Yard Sign
Never underestimate the power of a well-placed yard sign. If your property is on a visible street, a "For Rent" sign with a phone number or text-in code can generate local interest. Many renters drive around neighborhoods looking for available homes. For a few dollars, a simple sign can bring in qualified, local traffic.
5. Write A Clear And Compelling Listing Description
A great listing description should answer tenants’ top questions quickly—such as the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, rent amount, deposit, pet policy, and move-in availability. Keep it clear, upbeat, and easy to read. Highlight key features like updated kitchens, private yards, or included appliances. Well-written descriptions paired with strong photos can get you more inquiries faster and reduce wasted time.
Final Thoughts On Marketing Rental Property Properly
Marketing a rental property doesn’t have to be expensive to be effective. With good photos, smart online posting, a little social media work, and a few low-cost touches, you can dramatically increase the visibility of your property—and fill vacancies faster with quality tenants.
