Key Takeaways
- Use a detailed, keyword-rich property description.
- Include high-quality photos and a video tour.
- Follow platform-specific listing guidelines.
- Use tools like online applications, leases, and payments.
Renters have a variety of options when searching through rental listings online. Luckily, there are some things you can do to make your listing stand out. If you’ve never listed a property online before, you might be wondering how to attract renters so you can fill your vacant unit and start collecting rent. First, start with the ad. This is the first thing potential renters will see, so you want to make sure it’s eye-catching and informative.
What Should I Include in a Rental Listing Description?
You have two goals when creating a listing: attracting renters and getting them to submit leads. Renters will scan through available rentals quickly, especially when listings fail to catch their eye. You want renters to pause on your listing, read your property description, and contact you. Here are some of the things a great listing should include:
A detailed description of your rental property
A great rental listing begins with a compelling, informative description. This is your first impression, so make it count.
Checklist for a Strong Property Description:
- Property type and address
- Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
- Square footage
- Key amenities (e.g., dishwasher, AC, in-unit laundry)
- Recent renovations (e.g., new floors, remodeled kitchen)
- Neighborhood highlights (e.g., near public transit, restaurants)
Pro Tip: Avoid generic adjectives like "nice" or "beautiful." Use specifics: "2023 kitchen remodel with quartz countertops."
After writing a property description, read it over carefully and make edits. Check your spelling and grammar, and look for anything you might have overlooked.
Did you know? Apartments.com helps you write detailed and accurate listing descriptions with our Generative AI feature! Just provide some property details and select "generate a description."
How Do I Write a Great Rental Listing Headline?
Keep your headline short and clear. State the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and a key feature.
Examples:
- "2BR Apartment Near Metro with In-Unit Laundry"
- "Pet-Friendly 3BR Home with Fenced Yard"
How Do I Take Great Rental Listing Photos?
Photos are often the deciding factor for renters. Your main image should be an exterior shot in good lighting. Before photographing your property, mow the lawn, remove objects that detract from your home (ladders, bicycles, etc.), and give the interior a good cleaning.
Rental Photo Tips:
- Shoot in daylight (morning or golden hour)
- Use a high-resolution camera
- Take wide-angle shots from corners
- Declutter and stage the space
- Highlight unique features (e.g., balcony, large closets)
Include 10–15 horizontal, full-color photos. Avoid filters or copyrighted images. Apartments.com requires JPG/JPEG, GIF, or PNG formats under 75MB.
Should I Include a Video Tour?
Yes. Listings with video tours receive significantly more engagement.
How to Record a Video Tour:
- Stage the rental and clean thoroughly.
- Film a walkthrough from the front door through each room.
- Keep the video between 2–5 minutes.
- Edit out shaky footage.
Uploading 3D Tours to Apartments.com:
- With a Premium Listing, you can add a Matterport 3D tour for your property.
- Adding a 3D tour is fast, easy, and doesn't require special equipment, just your phone or tablet.
How Do I List My Property on Apartments.com?
Step-by-Step:
- Go to Apartments.com and click "Add a Property."
- Enter your rental address and property type.
- Sign in or create an account.
- Complete two-factor authentication.
- Add listing details: description, images, features (e.g., pet policy, parking).
- Comply with Fair Housing Act guidelines.
Common Listing Rejection Reasons:
- Discriminatory language (FHA violation)
- Duplicate listing
- Invalid phone number
- Sublet
Will Renters See My Contact Information?
Apartments.com masks your phone number and email for privacy, but inquiries are forwarded directly to you.
Tip: Call the masked number from another phone to test it.
How Do I Manage My Rental Listing?
After publishing, click "Manage Your Property" to access Rental Tools.
Rental Tools Features:
- Online applications
- Digital leases
- Rent collection
How Do Online Rental Applications Work?
- Enable Rental Tools to add an “Apply” button.
- Renters submit their info and pay a fee.
- You receive their credit, criminal, and eviction reports.
You can also invite applicants manually from your dashboard.
How to Create an Online Lease
- Click the "Leases" tab.
- Select applicant or create new lease.
- Enter start/end dates and terms.
- Download and review the lease.
- Send for electronic signature.
Note: Leases are state-specific. Always have a lawyer review any custom clauses.
How to Set Up Online Rent Payments
- Go to "Payments" in Rental Tools.
- Click "Create New Rent Collection."
- Enter your account details and renter’s email.
- Invite tenants to schedule payments.
FAQs
What makes a rental listing stand out?
- Specific, detailed descriptions and quality photos.
Can I list for free on Apartments.com?
- Yes, basic listings are free. Premium features (like video) require payment.
Is a video tour really necessary?
- Highly recommended. It boosts engagement and trust.
What words should I avoid in my ad?
- Any that suggest preference or discrimination. Always follow Fair Housing rules.
By creating a listing that includes a detailed property description, high-quality photos, and video, your ad will help you stand out among the rest. Placing your ad online will get you in front of millions of renters and take your property from vacant to rented. Learn more about listing your rental on Apartments.com and visit our Help Center to view frequently asked questions and get more information about Rental Tools.
This article was originally published on February 24, 2023.
