Whether you are already a long-time successful landlord, or if you are just getting into the business of being the owner of rental property, you will already know the value of a good marketing strategy. 

In the past, a significant amount of marketing was done in traditional fashion. Landlords used to heavily rely on print marketing, such as the classified ads in the newspaper. That was often where individuals shopping for a new place to rent went to check first. Yard signs,  or “For Rent” signs hung in windows, were also the norm and frequently also used as a marketing tool. 

While these traditional marketing tools may still be employed today, more often than not, digital marketing for your rental unit is now a far more effective marketing strategy. A recent poll showed that 85% of Americans now own a smartphone. With everyone having the internet at their fingertips, we are using the convenience of technology to access and gain information in all aspects of our lives. One of these aspects is for the task of searching for a property to rent. 

Digital marketing is the new strategy that you as a landlord will want to start to explore. Your long term success will depend on how well you are able to capture your target audience’s attention and the quality of the content you are providing. Having the internet available to use as a research tool is essential for your renters and you need to make sure that you are posting the key points that your future potential tenants will want to learn.

Showing your rental property to its best advantages using the internet is the way to go, and gaining some experience in digital marketing for your rental unit doesn’t have to be complicated or as overwhelming as it may seem at first thought. Here are a couple easy digital marketing strategies to kick start your online presence as a landlord.

Company Website 

It may seem like overkill to create a company website if you only have a few properties available to rent, but a website is often the first place a prospective tenant will go to find out information. 

Choosing a layout design that is clear, well organized and easy to navigate is important. You want those viewing your site to be able to easily navigate the site and find the information they are searching for. 

Make sure your name and contact information are listed in an easy to notice place, and list company hours, if you only work during certain business hours. 

Viewers also love pictures. People want to know what the space they are considering looks like, how or if the unit is furnished, and what finishes and features the property has to offer. You may want to consider hiring a professional to come and take pictures of the properties you will have posted on your site. Although pictures have the power to peak someone’s interest, a bad picture can also turn someone off to the idea of renting it. Poor lighting may make the unit seem dark and dingy or the wrong angle may make the space seem small or cramped. 

Other ideas for things to list on your site include links to other relevant providers, such as the water company, internet service and phone. Be sure to give accurate information, in order to prevent any potential frustration. Information about the local school district would also be helpful and people may enjoy learning more about the amenities the neighborhood has to offer, such as parks, dining and shopping.

Ask any current or former tenants to leave you a review. Customer satisfaction speaks volumes and if someone has something good to say about their experience, you want to make sure to share the good word with the world.

Social Media

Social media is a digital marketing tool for your rental that should not be underestimated. Facebook and Instagram are a couple of sites that people frequently visit to catch up on the “latest”. 

Posting vacancies on your social media is also a great way to drum up new interest. Using pictures to help prospective tenants visualize what the properties features are, will further peak their interest, and if you want to take it even a step further, post virtual tours to maximize their interest. 

Even at times that you do not have vacancies, continue making posts about topics that your target market would find relevant. Current tenants may like to know about the local farmer’s market happening Saturday morning, or about the fireworks display happening at the park on the 4th of July. Posting other links or advertisements for individuals thinking of moving on topics relevant to moving, such as a moving company you’ve had a good experience with and their contact info or tips on how to maximize space when packing are just a couple of ideas. 

The point of social media is to stay relevant and on people’s minds, so that they think of your company when they decide it’s time to look for a new rental. 

Be sure to link your social media site to your website as well as the reverse. If you can get people to visit your website or your social media site, then they can connect with the other site as well. This gains you more exposure and more of an opportunity to make your presence in the rental market more well known. Digital marketing is here to stay and using these platforms will offer huge improvements in your marketing strategy.



If you would like help marketing your Branson rental properties, contact Thousand Hills Realty at (417) 337-8081 to find out how you can let us do the work for you. We have the necessary experience to make sure your rentals have maximum visibility online and we would love to partner with you!