These days, attracting great tenants takes more than just a “For Rent” sign
If it feels like it’s harder than ever to find the right tenant, you’re not imagining it. Renters are spoilt for choice, and competition is fierce.
But the good news? A few smart tweaks can give your property the edge it needs to stand out.
Here’s a focused strategy to help your rental home get noticed in today’s market—and get it rented faster.
✨ Make Your Listing Unmissable
Video Walkthroughs – Convenience is King
In todays world where convenience is everything, a virtual tour is no longer a ‘nice to have’—it’s a must have.
A 3D video walkthrough gives potential tenants a true feel for the space, no matter where they are.
This is especially helpful for busy people or those relocating from other cities.
Virtual Staging – Style Without the Stress
Virtual staging is a clever, affordable way to showcase your property’s potential. By digitally adding furniture and decor, you’re helping renters visualise what life could look like in your space – without leaving their home.
The results? More eyes on your listing, quicker enquiries, and shorter vacancy times.
Professional Photography – First Impression Matters
Scrolling through rentals is a visual experience. Quality photos make all the difference in getting someone to ‘stop the scroll’.
A good photographer knows how to capture light, angles, and space to make your property look bright, welcoming, and spacious.
💡 Tip: If your property stays the same, these photos can be reused every time it comes up for rent. This makes it a smart, one time investment that keeps delivering value.
🐾 Allow pets and open the door to more renters
Allow Pets – Widen Your Audience
We know it’s a big decision, however opening your rental up to pets can make a huge difference. More renters than ever are pet owners, and finding a pet-friendly home is tough.
By saying yes to pets, you’re tapping into a market of responsible tenants who are more likely to stay longer.
With changes to the Residential Tenancies Act coming soon, it’s also a smart move to get ahead of the curve.
🔄 Flexible lease terms
Not every tenant is looking for a 12-month commitment. Offering shorter or periodic leases can open the door to more potential renters, especially those in-between life stages or on temporary work contracts.
Offer Incentives
Everyone loves a sweetener. Whether it’s the first week rent-free, free lawn mowing, or reduced rent for the first month, small incentives can give your property the edge. Think of it as an investment in reducing your vacancy period.
🧹 Refresh a Stale Listing
If your property’s been sitting online without much interest, it might be time for a refresh.
Removing the listing and re-listing it pushes it back to the top of platforms like Trade Me, especially helpful if you’re making changes to the rent or photos.
💡 Tip: Adjusting your rent can also open your listing to a new audience. For example, dropping the rent from $520 to $495 moves it into a lower search bracket. This means reaching more potential renters.
💸 Set the Right Rent – and Be Willing to Adjust
Dropping the rent isn’t ideal. But sometimes, it’s the fastest and most effective way to fill a vacancy.
Remember, every week your property sits empty is around 2% of your annual income lost.
If you’re asking $500/week, that’s $500 gone for every week it’s vacant. And it adds up fast.
We always recommend checking current market conditions:
- How many similar properties are listed in your area?
- How long have they been sitting there?
- Are there newer developments pulling attention?
- How does your property’s condition compare? Is it modern or dated?
- Are you missing key features like a second bathroom, internal garage access, or a dishwasher?
Let’s Chat
By understanding what renters really want, and where your property fits, you’re in a much stronger position to attract your next tenant. A few small changes could make a big difference.
Renthub have placed over 2000 tenants into homes and can help. Call us on: 09 630 2655 or drop us a line at office@renthub.nz.
