In today’s digital-driven real estate market, a compelling rental property listing can make all the difference in attracting quality tenants. With thousands of properties available online, ensuring your listing stands out from the competition is crucial. Whether you’re a landlord or a real estate agent, creating an eye-catching and informative listing will increase inquiries and help secure a tenant faster.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your rental property listing stand out.
1. Craft an Attention-Grabbing Title
Your listing title is the first thing potential tenants will see, so make it engaging and informative. Avoid generic titles like “2-Bedroom Apartment for Rent” and instead highlight unique selling points.
✅ Examples of compelling titles:
- “Modern 2-Bedroom Apartment with Ocean Views & Secure Parking – R15,000”
- “Spacious Pet-Friendly 3-Bedroom Home with Garden in Sandton – R18,000”
- “Luxury Loft Apartment with Private Balcony in Cape Town CBD – R14,500”
Include key features like the number of bedrooms, location, and any standout amenities.
2. Use High-Quality Photos and Videos
Listings with professional-quality photos receive more inquiries than those with poor or no images. Tenants want to visualise the space before scheduling a viewing, so showcasing your property effectively is key.
Photography Tips:
📸 Use natural light to brighten rooms.
📸 Take wide-angle shots to capture more space.
📸 Highlight key areas, such as the living room, kitchen, and bathroom.
📸 Include exterior shots, especially if the property has a garden, balcony, or pool.
💡 Bonus Tip: Upload a virtual tour or video walkthrough to give tenants an immersive experience.
3. Write a Clear and Engaging Description
Your property description should provide enough details to answer a potential tenant’s questions while being easy to read.
What to Include:
- Location: Mention the neighbourhood and nearby amenities.
- Size & Layout: Number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and living spaces.
- Amenities: Parking, WiFi, pet-friendly, security features, or included appliances.
- Rental Terms: Monthly rent, deposit amount, lease duration, and availability date.
- Selling Points: Highlight unique features like high ceilings, large windows, or smart home technology.
Example:
“This stunning 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartment in the heart of Umhlanga offers breathtaking sea views from a spacious private balcony. The modern kitchen is fitted with granite countertops and a gas stove. Residents enjoy access to a rooftop pool, secure parking, and 24-hour security. Just a 5-minute walk to Gateway Mall and the beachfront. Available from 1st March. Rent: R18,000 per month. Deposit: R27,000.“
4. Highlight Unique Selling Points
Think about what sets your property apart. Does it have:
✅ A pet-friendly policy?
✅ An energy-efficient design? (Solar panels, backup power, or smart home features)
✅ A convenient location? (Near schools, transport hubs, or business districts)
✅ Premium amenities? (Gym, concierge service, or secure parking)
Mentioning these in your listing will attract the right tenants faster.
5. Be Transparent About Costs
Hidden fees or vague pricing can deter potential tenants. Clearly outline:
💰 Monthly rent
💰 Deposit requirements
💰 Utilities (Included or excluded)
💰 Additional costs (Parking fees, levies, or pet deposits)
6. Include a Call to Action (CTA)
Encourage potential tenants to take the next step.
Example:
“Interested? Contact us today to schedule a viewing! Call John on 082 123 4567 or email [email protected].”
Providing multiple contact options (phone, WhatsApp, email) makes it easier for tenants to reach out.
7. List on the Right Platforms
To maximise visibility, list your rental property on reputable real estate platforms like Propertify, Property24, and Private Property. Also, share your listing on social media and local community groups.
8. Keep Your Listing Updated
If your property remains vacant for a while, update the listing with fresh photos, a revised description, or even a rental price adjustment based on market demand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What adds the most value to a rental property?
The biggest value-adds to a rental property include:
Location & Accessibility: Proximity to business hubs, schools, and transport.
Modern Upgrades: Renovated kitchens, updated bathrooms, and energy-efficient features.
Security Features: CCTV, electric fencing, and alarm systems.
Furnished vs. Unfurnished: Fully furnished units often command higher rental prices in key areas.
How do I make my rental listing stand out?
To make your rental listing stand out:
Use high-quality photos and videos.
Write an engaging and clear description.
Highlight unique selling points (pet-friendly, smart home features, backup power, etc.).
Include all cost details upfront to avoid confusion.
Post on multiple platforms for maximum exposure.
What is the best way to advertise a rental property?
The best ways to market a rental property include:
Listing on real estate platforms like Propertify, Property24, and Private Property.
Leveraging social media (Facebook Marketplace, Instagram, and LinkedIn).
Word of mouth & networking (real estate agents, tenant referrals).
Professional signage in high-traffic areas (for local rentals).
Posting on classifieds like Gumtree and AdHive.
What are some effective rental marketing ideas?
Create virtual tours or video walkthroughs.
Run social media ads targeting renters in your area.
Offer incentives (discounted first month’s rent or free WiFi for a limited period).
Leverage tenant reviews to build credibility.
Host open houses for in-person viewings.
Where do most landlords post rentals?
Most landlords in South Africa post rentals on:
Property24 – One of the largest real estate platforms.
Private Property – A go-to marketplace for buyers and renters.
Propertify – Fast-growing platform connecting landlords with quality tenants.
Facebook Marketplace – Great for informal rentals and immediate tenant leads.
Gumtree – Ideal for reaching a broad audience.
Conclusion
Creating a standout rental property listing requires a mix of great visuals, detailed descriptions, and clear pricing. By implementing these strategies, you’ll attract more potential tenants, reduce vacancy periods, and secure reliable renters faster.
📢 Looking to list your rental property? Get started on Propertify today for maximum exposure and quality leads!
