By Your Friendly Property Management Experts
Let’s be real—vacant properties are like that last slice of pizza that no one wants to take. It's just sitting there, getting cold, and nobody’s interested. But here’s the thing: It doesn’t have to be that way. Keeping your rental property occupied is one of the most important—and most challenging—parts of being a property owner. But fear not, we’ve got you covered with a few clever strategies to fill that space with great residents, and fast.
1. Snap, Click, Done: The Power of Great Photos
You wouldn’t show up to a date wearing pajamas, right? The same rule applies to your rental property. If your listing doesn’t look appealing, it’s probably getting swiped left. Great photos are the first step in making sure your property stands out. We’re talking professional-level shots that capture the charm of your place—from the cozy living room to that sun-soaked balcony. Invest in a little staging and set the scene. After all, a picture is worth a thousand... well, potential tenants. Want to see some of our listings in action? Check out our property listings for inspiration.
2. List Everywhere: More Platforms = More Exposure
Want more eyes on your property? The secret is simple: list everywhere. Don’t rely on just one site—spread the love across multiple high-traffic listing platforms like Zillow and Apartments.com. By casting a wide net, you're increasing your chances of finding that perfect tenant. A little extra legwork on the listing front can mean a lot less downtime between residents. Learn more about our marketing strategy.
3. Virtual Tours: The Open House That Never Ends
Remember the hassle of trying to find a time for a property showing? Forget it! With virtual tours and 3D walkthroughs, your property is open 24/7. Interested tenants can take a look anytime, from anywhere. It’s like giving them the keys to your place—without them ever having to leave their couch. This flexibility means you’re more likely to attract serious prospects who are ready to move in now. For a closer look at our available properties with virtual tours, visit our property search page.
4. Speed Is Key: Respond Fast, Rent Fast
When a potential tenant shows interest, don’t leave them hanging. A fast response is key to keeping the momentum going. If you’ve got an inquiry, be quick to schedule a showing or send over details about the property. The quicker you engage, the quicker you’ll fill that vacancy. After all, people aren’t just interested in your property—they’re interested in moving in now.
5. Price It Right: The Goldilocks Approach
When it comes to rental pricing, there’s a sweet spot— not too high, not too low. Price your property too high, and you’ll scare away good tenants. Price it too low, and you’ll be losing out on income. Keeping an eye on the local rental market and adjusting accordingly ensures you’re competitive while still getting the return you deserve. The right price helps keep your property occupied without giving it away. Need help determining the right price for your property? Our property management services can assist with competitive pricing strategies.
6. Thorough Screening: No One Likes a Bad Roommate
We’ve all been there—living with someone who doesn’t pay rent on time or takes zero care of the property. To avoid that nightmare, make sure your screening process is on point. Always check credit, background, and rental history to find the best tenants. It’s the difference between having a smooth ride and dealing with constant headaches. Trust us, a little extra time spent on screening will pay off in peace of mind. We handle all of this for you through our tenant screening process.
7. Keep Your Marketing Fresh
No one wants to look at a stale listing with the same old photos and descriptions. Keep your property’s marketing fresh by updating the photos, highlighting any improvements, or even adding a special promotion to attract new tenants. Don’t let your listing gather dust—give it new life and watch the applications roll in. You can explore more about how we market properties on our website.
How a Property Manager Can Help
Worried about vacancies and overwhelmed by the idea of managing everything on your own? It’s time to let the experts handle it. Hiring a property manager means you can sit back, relax, and let someone else take the reins in keeping your property occupied. From marketing to screening to follow-ups, a property manager takes care of the hard stuff so you don’t have to.
Call Conrad today at 202.803.7200 to learn how our expert team can take care of all your property management needs. Let’s fill that vacancy and get you back to enjoying the perks of property ownership! Learn more about our property management services and let us take the stress out of managing your rental.
