Reducing vacancy time is one of the most important goals for any landlord. Every week your rental property sits empty is a week of lost income. The good news is that with the right rental listing advice and a clear understanding of your legal rental obligations, you can attract quality tenants faster and fill vacancies without compromising on tenant standards.
Whether you’re leasing privately or listing through a platform like For Sale By Home Owner, the key is to present your property professionally, price it correctly, and respond to inquiries quickly. Here’s the best approach to get your property rented faster.
Write a Clear and Compelling Listing Description
A strong rental listing starts with a clear, well-written description. Focus on the most appealing aspects of your property—such as location, size, recent upgrades, natural light, or outdoor space. Describe the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, parking options, and whether pets are allowed.
Avoid vague language. Be specific, concise, and positive. A great listing doesn’t just describe a home—it helps potential tenants imagine living there.
Platforms like For Sale By Home Owner make it easy to write and edit your listing, and syndicate it to major real estate websites for maximum exposure.
Use High-Quality Photos
Photos make or break your listing. Properties with professional-looking images attract more views, more inquiries, and rent out faster. Take photos during daylight, tidy up the space, and capture wide angles of each room. Include exterior shots, outdoor areas, and standout features like modern kitchens or spacious living rooms.
If possible, consider hiring a photographer or using a high-resolution smartphone with proper lighting. A visual first impression plays a huge role in reducing vacancy time.
Price Your Property Competitively
One of the most overlooked pieces of rental listing advice is setting the right price. Do your research by looking at similar properties in your area and comparing rent rates. If you overprice your property, it could sit vacant for weeks. If you underprice, you lose rental income.
Aim for a balanced figure that reflects your property’s value, location, and amenities. You can always adjust the price based on feedback or interest levels after listing.
Highlight Legal and Practical Details
Prospective tenants appreciate transparency, especially when it comes to legal rental obligations. Include information such as:
- Bond amount and where it will be lodged (in accordance with state laws)
- Lease length (fixed-term or periodic)
- Notice periods for termination or rent increases
- Smoking and pet policies
- Maintenance expectations
By clearly addressing these points in your listing, you establish trust with tenants and reduce the risk of misunderstandings later.
Be Responsive and Professional
When inquiries come in, respond promptly. Delayed replies could result in tenants choosing other properties. Be polite, helpful, and ready to schedule inspections quickly.
Have your documents, application forms, and screening questions prepared in advance. A landlord who is organized and responsive is far more likely to secure reliable tenants without unnecessary delay.
Keep Your Listing Updated
If your property has been on the market for a few weeks without much interest, revisit your listing. Update the description, refresh the photos, and consider adjusting the price slightly. Search engines and property platforms often prioritize newer or recently updated listings, increasing your visibility.
You can easily make changes through For Sale By Home Owner, which keeps your listing active and competitive in the market.
Showcase Unique Selling Points
Does your property have solar panels, air conditioning, a dishwasher, or a home office space? Don’t leave out these features—they can be deal-breakers for many tenants. Mention proximity to public transport, schools, parks, or shopping centers.
Even small details like natural lighting, storage space, or a quiet street can influence a renter’s decision.
Conclusion
Minimizing vacancy time starts with creating a professional, appealing, and accurate rental listing. By following this rental listing advice and ensuring you meet your legal rental obligations, you position your property for faster results and better tenants.
When you list through For Sale By Home Owner, you gain direct access to Australia’s leading real estate platforms while staying in full control of the process. With the right strategy and support, filling your rental quickly is entirely within reach.
