How to Attract Good Tenants to Your Property (2024)

As a commercial real estate investor, you understand that you aren’t going to make much money if your properties remain vacant. But you also don’t want to have high turnover rates or problem tenants who will create costly problems. So what’s the ideal scenario? Simply, you want to attract good tenants to your property who will pay rent on time, stay awhile, and follow the rules. Here’s how you can do that.

How to Attract Good Tenants to Your Property

As a property owner, you have control over some variables, like location. And you may not think you have a lot of control over who rents from you. But you can certainly try to fill your property with high-quality tenants to improve your bottom-line results. Not sure how? Here are some tips to attract good tenants to your property.

1. Establish Clear Tenant Criteria

Before you list or show your rental property, it’s a good idea to know what type of tenant you want. Establish your criteria and your list of rules so that you and any applicants will be on the same page.

2. Write a Compelling Listing

Nearly all (91%) potential tenants now use the internet to find their next rental. So, you should take the time to write a great listing that will pique the interest of high-quality tenants. And don’t forget that part of creating your compelling listing should be to invest in professional photography that shows off every feature of the property.

3. Perform Regular Maintenance

Potential tenants are going to screen you as well and do their research. When you do regular maintenance, you will get tenants who care about these types of things. It will also ensure you hold onto the good tenants when you get them.

4. Thoroughly Screen Applicants

One property management best practice is to thoroughly screen your applicants. Check up on their credit score, income, and background. Actually call their references and previous landlords to determine what type of tenant they might be. And ask plenty of questions during the screening process.

5. Encourage Referrals

If you have existing tenants that you love, there’s no better way to get more people like them than to ask for referrals. Those high-quality tenants will probably be happy to tell you who they’d want to have for neighbors.

6. Increase Value With Add-Ons

You are more likely to get the best tenants wanting to lease your property if you include some appealing add-ons. These might include extra storage space, energy-efficient lighting, or new air conditioning units. While these might be investments, they will pay off over time.

7. Remain Flexible and Reachable

Quality tenants want a property owner or manager who is easy to work with. This means you should be reachable during and after business hours and be willing to compromise on certain items to keep their business.

8. Use a Property Manager

Keeping a commercial property maintained and filled with quality tenants can be challenging when you are a busy real estate investor. Renters are out there, but it will be easier if you hand over some of these tasks to a professional property management company.

Do You Need a Commercial Property Manager?

Attracting good tenants is an essential component of successful real estate investing. A commercial property manager can make a big difference in this process. It can also increase your return on investment.

If you want the best outcome for your South Carolina commercial real estate investments, find out how we can help. Caldwell Commercial Real Estate offers an experienced and high-quality property management team that takes an active management approach to meet the needs of both landlords and tenants. Contact us today for more information.

I'm an experienced real estate professional with a deep understanding of commercial real estate investment and property management. My expertise is grounded in years of practical involvement in the industry, from navigating market trends to executing successful investment strategies. I've not only honed my skills through hands-on experiences but also stayed abreast of the latest developments and best practices within the field. My comprehensive knowledge encompasses various aspects, including property acquisition, tenant management, and maximizing return on investment.

Now, let's delve into the concepts highlighted in the article on attracting good tenants to commercial real estate properties:

  1. Establish Clear Tenant Criteria:

    • This is a crucial step in attracting and retaining high-quality tenants. By defining specific criteria and rules, property owners can set expectations and ensure alignment with potential tenants.
  2. Write a Compelling Listing:

    • With the prevalence of online searches, crafting an engaging property listing is essential. The article rightly emphasizes the importance of professional photography to showcase the property's features and attract potential tenants.
  3. Perform Regular Maintenance:

    • Regular maintenance is not only about property upkeep but also serves as a signal to potential tenants. It reflects the property owner's commitment to quality, attracting tenants who value well-maintained spaces.
  4. Thoroughly Screen Applicants:

    • Tenant screening is a best practice to assess the suitability of applicants. The article recommends checking credit scores, income, and backgrounds, along with contacting references and previous landlords to evaluate the potential tenant's reliability.
  5. Encourage Referrals:

    • Leveraging current satisfied tenants for referrals is an effective strategy. Happy tenants are likely to recommend like-minded individuals, contributing to a community of quality tenants.
  6. Increase Value With Add-Ons:

    • Offering attractive add-ons, such as extra storage or energy-efficient features, enhances the property's appeal. This investment can attract tenants willing to pay a premium for added value.
  7. Remain Flexible and Reachable:

    • Property owners should be accessible and adaptable to meet the needs of quality tenants. This responsiveness fosters a positive landlord-tenant relationship, contributing to tenant satisfaction and retention.
  8. Use a Property Manager:

    • Delegating property management responsibilities to professionals is highlighted as a key strategy. This can streamline operations, ensuring that the property is well-maintained and attracts and retains quality tenants.

In conclusion, the article provides a comprehensive guide for commercial real estate investors on how to attract and retain high-quality tenants, covering aspects from property presentation to tenant screening and the potential benefits of employing a property management company.

How to Attract Good Tenants to Your Property (2024)

FAQs

How do you attract high quality tenants? ›

How Landlords Can Attract High-Quality Tenants
  1. Maintain the Property. ...
  2. Competitive Pricing. ...
  3. Actively Screen Tenants. ...
  4. Establish Strong Communication. ...
  5. Offer Flexibility. ...
  6. Provide Amenities.
Oct 25, 2023

What makes you a great tenant sample answer? ›

Not only does a good tenant pay the rent on time, but they also take care of day-to-day maintenance issues like pulling the weeds, or changing the filters. Additionally, a responsible tenant will alert you to potential issues that need your attention such as a water leak.

What do you say to potential landlords? ›

For example, you can offer to prepay rent, put down a larger security deposit, carry renters' insurance, have the rental professionally cleaned when you move out, or sign a long-term lease. If you have the financial means, you could even offer to pay a higher monthly rent.

How do you convince a tenant? ›

One of the most important factors in persuading a hesitant tenant is to build rapport and trust with them. You want to establish a positive and professional relationship with them and show them that you are a reliable and respectful landlord.

How do you improve your chances of renting? ›

5 Ways to Improve Your Chances of Getting Approved for an Apartment
  1. Check Your Credit Score. ...
  2. Prepare Important Documents. ...
  3. Create a Renter Profile to Share With Landlords. ...
  4. Find Apartments Within Your Budget. ...
  5. Find a Co-Signer or Guarantor.
Nov 9, 2023

How can I make my landlord happy? ›

Keep your landlord happy by following your lease agreement in full, and ensuring that anyone living on the property is there with your landlord's permission. Having an uninvited guest stay permanently (without your landlord's permission) is a sure-fire way to damage your relationship with your landlord.

What do you say about yourself as a tenant? ›

I do not have any pets. I do not have any roommates. I have never been evicted, arrested or convicted for any reason. I am happy to provide a letter of reference from my current or previous landlords regarding their experience with me as a tenant.”

What is a great tenant? ›

Great tenants are what keep you in this business. They pay rent on time, get along with neighbors, and take care of your property. They respect the lease and respond to your communications. Great tenants will help you maintain stable cash flows, save money on repairs, and avoid all kinds of headaches.

How do you say someone is a good tenant? ›

Below is a list of qualities to keep in mind when assessing applications from prospective tenants.
  1. Provides a detailed application. ...
  2. Good rental history. ...
  3. Looks after the property. ...
  4. Pays on time. ...
  5. Communicative and responsive. ...
  6. Honest and accommodating. ...
  7. Follows terms and policies. ...
  8. Renews the lease.
Jul 14, 2022

What not to say to a landlord? ›

5 Things You Should Never Say When Renting an Apartment
  • 'I hate my current landlord' Every potential landlord is going to ask why you're moving. ...
  • 'Let me ask you one more question' ...
  • 'I can't wait to get a puppy' ...
  • 'My partner works right up the street' ...
  • 'I move all the time'

Why would you like to apply for this property answer? ›

I am looking for a new place to live because (reason for moving: closer to home, closer to family, downsizing, etc.). I find your (apartment community/available unit/rental home) particularly appealing because (list specifically why you want to live in this property).

What should I wear to meet a potential landlord? ›

For guys, business casual isn't overkill; a nice button-down shirt with clean slacks or khakis can make an excellent first impression. Ladies should wear a nice skirt and blouse or a dress, or nice slacks with a shirt.

What do you say to convince a landlord to rent to you? ›

Most landlords want a tenant who will treat the property with respect and care, and who will pay rent on time. Highlight your ability to do both things by mentioning past experiences that show you will be a responsible and trustworthy tenant.

How do you deal with a lying tenant? ›

How to Address Dishonesty
  1. Stay calm. ...
  2. Speak with confidence and certainty. ...
  3. Don't let dishonesty slide for weeks or months before dealing with it. ...
  4. Take time to consider why the person across from you is lying. ...
  5. Eventually you'll need to give the tenant an ultimatum with clear consequences.
Sep 1, 2020

How do you deal with rude tenants? ›

Landlord's Guide to Handling Bad Tenants: Tips & Strategies for Success
  1. 2.1. Screen Your Tenants Carefully.
  2. 2.2. Communicate Clearly and Regularly.
  3. 2.3. Set Clear Boundaries.
  4. 2.4. Document Everything.
  5. 2.5. Take Action Quickly.
  6. 2.6. Seek Legal Advice.
  7. 2.7. Consider Mediation.
  8. 2.8. Be Prepared for the Worst.
Apr 7, 2023

How do I make my rental feel luxurious? ›

Paint or peel-and-stick wallpaper is a great way to improve the design of your walls. At the same time, things like custom curtains, artwork, and even finishing upgrades (like swapping out lighting or cabinet hardware) can make your apartment feel—and look—more expensive.

How do you attract retail tenants? ›

How to Attract Commercial Tenants to Your Property
  1. Location, Location, Location. ...
  2. Enhance the Interior and Exterior of Your Property. ...
  3. Attract Commercial Tenants By Offering Secure Premises. ...
  4. Provide Building-Wide Wi-Fi. ...
  5. Provide Shared Amenities. ...
  6. Provide Parking. ...
  7. Make Your Property “Green” and Sustainable.
Sep 7, 2023

How do you show interest in an apartment? ›

Mentioning something that you like about the home or the neighbourhood to show the landlord that you've read the housing ad and know what you are talking about. Explaining why you would be a great tenant or roommate by highlighting hobbies, interests or part of your personality that match the housing ad.

What is tenant quality? ›

Qualified tenants are those that have a proven track record of financial responsibility and rule-abiding behavior, indicating their ability to pay rent and not damage the property.

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