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How you present your rental listing can make all the difference between attracting tenants or not, which is why many landlords put a lot of effort into crafting an informative post. When well-written, the listing will not just announce an opening. It can pre-screen tenants, reduce repetitive questions, and attract tenants who are good fits for your property.
This guide doesn’t just list what you should include in your listing, but also the kinds of information you should include for each item.
Key Highlights:
- A well-crafted rental listing does more than announce availability—it helps pre-screen tenants, reduce inquiries, and attract better-fitting renters.
- Clear property basics such as rent amount, lease term, deposit limits, move-in date, and property type are essential for capturing tenant interest quickly.
- Including precise location details, amenities, utilities, and transportation access helps renters assess lifestyle fit and convenience.
- Detailed unit descriptions, pet policies, and high-quality photos showcase the property’s value and set accurate expectations.
- Strong calls to action and clear contact information make it easier for prospective tenants to take the next step and schedule a showing or apply.
Property Basics
These are the details that potential tenants check first, which often determine whether they click on your listing or look for a better one.
Rent Amount and Lease Term
Clearly state the rent amount and lease term first, as this is arguably the most important detail in your listing. Always indicate whether the lease agreement is short-term, month-to-month, or fixed-term, since potential tenants will compare the amount to the lease duration to decide whether the cost is worth it.
Security Deposit Amount
San Diego landlords generally don’t have the option to set their own security deposit amount, as the rental law requires it to be limited to a month’s rent. However, if you’re a small landlord who only owns two rental properties and has no more than four tenants collectively, you can charge up to two months’ worth of rent. These exemptions are why it’s still important to indicate the amount.
Available Move-In Date
The move-in date matters to applicants because it affects their living situation, so some potential tenants need a place to rent sooner rather than later. By forgetting this detail, you would end up with questions that could’ve easily been answered in the listing, or tenants will skip your listing altogether.
Property Type and Square Footage
Specify the type of rental property, as each potential tenant has unique needs. A family might prefer a single-family home, while young professionals might opt for apartments instead. It would also help to mention the square footage, since some prospects have designs in mind they want to recreate, which may only work with a certain space size.
Exact Location
The location of your rental property is a significant factor in a prospective renter’s decision, so be sure to include the address details that matter, such as the city, neighborhood, and ZIP code. It would also help to mention major landmarks in the area to give them a better idea of the place.
Furthermore, the public transportation situation should be mentioned, especially if your property is in an urban setting. What is the walkability to certain amenities? Is there public transit access? Are there highways nearby?
Amenities and Utilities
Amenities
Include the amenities that come with the rental unit or property. With appliances, for instance, renters will look for the basics, such as a refrigerator, stove, microwave, dishwasher, laundry unit, and more. It would be better if these appliances were visible in the listing photos, as it paints a clearer picture of what they can expect.
Utilities
Specify what kind of utilities are included in the rental unit or property. It’s a given that HVAC, electricity, plumbing, and gas are included, but potential tenants would prefer specific details. What utilities are included in the rent, and which ones would the tenant pay for? Is the cooling system a central or separate unit?
Detailed Description of the Unit
Everything else describes the space, but a detailed description of the unit sells the lifestyle. Mention the floor plan layout and whether natural light covers the entire room. State what kind of view comes with the window placement, and whether they have access to a patio or balcony.
Flooring type also matters. For some, hardwood flooring is preferable, while others prefer carpeted floors. For a more comprehensive description, include the ceiling height, storage space, closets, and recent upgrades to the property.
Pet Policy
This is one of the most searched-for details, with tenants placing importance on their fur friends. If you allow pets, be sure to specify which breeds, sizes, or weights are allowed on your rental property. For transparency, include information about pet rent or other pet fees. Keep in mind that these policies do not include service animals or emotional support animals.
High-Quality Photos
Listings with visuals get more clicks than those that don’t, especially if your photos highlight the best features of your rental. The photos should show every room, along with the exterior and common areas. If you can manage it, you may also include an image of the floor plan. It’s recommended that you hire a professional photographer for your listing images, as they know how to present your property in a way that attracts renters.
Call-to-Action and Contact Information
Potential tenants should have a way to contact you or learn more about the rental property if they’re interested. A call-to-action button can be for scheduling a showing, a virtual tour, a way to apply, or a contact method. For clearer expectations, add your office hours or estimated response time.
Rental Listing FAQs
Why is it important to include detailed information in a rental listing?
- A detailed rental listing helps attract qualified tenants, reduces repetitive questions, and sets clear expectations from the start. This can save time during the leasing process and lower the risk of misunderstandings later.
Is it necessary to include a pet policy in the listing?
- Yes. Pet policies are among the most searched listing details. Clearly state pet allowances, restrictions, deposits, or pet rent, while noting that service animals and emotional support animals are exempt.
How detailed should the unit description be?
- Beyond basic features, describe the layout, natural lighting, flooring, storage space, outdoor access, and recent upgrades. This helps tenants visualize living in the space and assess lifestyle fit.
A Marketing Expert in Your Corner
It’s easy to miss a few key details in your rental listing, and that is enough to lose the interest of a couple of potential renters. To maximize visibility and occupancy rates, you can hire experts like Investment Safe Property Management to market your rental property.
With us, you will have access to a dedicated leasing specialist, professional rental market analysis, professional photography, and online advertising exposure. All you have to do is sit back and wait for your units to be filled.
Want to learn more? Schedule a free consultation with us today!