Marketing your rental property effectively can be the difference between a quick let and weeks (or months) of costly void periods. Yet, many landlords unknowingly make common mistakes that reduce their chances of finding the right tenant quickly.
Here are the top five rental marketing mistakes, and how you can avoid them.
1. Poor Photography
📸 Why it’s a problem:
Your photos are often the first thing potential tenants see. Dark, grainy, or cluttered images can put people off instantly, as they may perceive the property as unkempt or unattractive. This can significantly reduce the number of enquiries and prolong the time your property remains vacant.
💡 How to fix it:
- Use professional photography wherever possible.
- Shoot in natural daylight.
- Stage rooms so they look clean, bright, and inviting.
2. Incomplete or Weak Property Descriptions
📝 Why it’s a problem:
A vague listing doesn’t give tenants enough information to decide whether your property is right for them, meaning fewer enquiries.
💡 How to fix it:
- Include key details: number of bedrooms, bathrooms, parking, garden, EPC rating, and nearby amenities.
- Highlight the property’s unique selling points.
- Keep the tone engaging and positive.
3. Pricing Without Market Research
💷 Why it’s a problem:
If you set your rent too high, you’ll deter potential tenants; too low, and you could lose income unnecessarily.
💡 How to fix it:
- Check comparable listings on portals like Rightmove and Zoopla.
- Use a letting agent’s expertise for accurate valuations.
- Review pricing regularly, especially in changing markets.
4. Limited Advertising Channels
📢 Why it’s a problem:
Only listing your property in one place (or relying on word-of-mouth) limits your reach and delays finding a tenant.
💡 How to fix it:
- Use multiple platforms: Rightmove, Zoopla, OnTheMarket, Facebook Marketplace, and your agent’s website.
- Promote via social media for additional exposure.
5. Ignoring Tenant Enquiries
⏳ Why it’s a problem:
Slow responses can cause you to lose interested tenants to other properties, potentially leading to longer void periods and loss of income. This is why prompt and efficient communication is not just important, but crucial in the rental market.
💡 How to fix it:
- Respond to all enquiries quickly — ideally within a few hours.
- Have viewing slots ready to offer immediately.
- Use a letting agent who can handle enquiries 7 days a week.
Final Thoughts
By steering clear of these five mistakes, you can seize control of your rental property marketing, letting your property faster, reducing void periods, and attracting higher-quality tenants. This sense of power and empowerment can be a game-changer in your rental business.
If you’d like expert help marketing your rental, REMAX Estate Agents offers professional photography, targeted advertising, and full letting support across Barry, Penarth, Cardiff, and surrounding areas. Our skilled support can enhance your marketing efforts, reassuring you that your property is in good hands and giving you the confidence to succeed in the rental market.
📞 Call us today for a free rental appraisal and personalised marketing plan. We value your business and are here to help you succeed in the rental market.
