How to Write a Good Property Listing

Are you a landlord looking to fill your rental property quickly and efficiently? The first impression your property makes is often the deciding factor in whether or not you attract the right tenant.

A compelling property listing can make all the difference—turning a potential renter's interest into a signed lease or leaving your property sitting vacant for weeks.

Redsail Property Management has written this guide that will walk you through the essential steps to create a standout rental listing.

It’s not just about highlighting your property’s best features—it's about presenting the right details in a way that speaks directly to your ideal tenant.

Follow these tips to make sure your listing stands out in a crowded market and attracts qualified residents faster.

Start with a Captivating Title

The title is the first thing a potential tenant sees. Make it concise yet descriptive, highlighting the property’s most appealing aspects. For example:

  • “Spacious 2-Bedroom Apartment with Ocean Views in Santa Monica”
  • “Modern 3-Bedroom Townhome with Private Garage in Austin”

Avoid generic titles like “Nice Apartment for Rent.” Instead, use words that convey value and uniqueness, such as “luxurious,” “renovated,” or “pet-friendly.”

Include High-Quality Photos

Photos are one of the most critical elements of a property listing. High-resolution images help potential residents visualize the space and can significantly increase interest in your property. Follow these tips:

  • Use natural light to showcase the property.
  • Highlight key features such as the kitchen, living room, and outdoor spaces.
  • Include photos of amenities like pools, gyms, or laundry facilities.
  • Stage the space to make it look inviting—declutter and add minimal décor.

If photography isn’t your strong suit, consider hiring a professional photographer. It’s a worthwhile investment to ensure your property looks its best online.

Write a Detailed Property Description

A great property description provides all the essential information while painting a picture of the lifestyle your rental offers. Break your description into sections for clarity:

Property Features

List key details such as:

  • Number of bedrooms and bathrooms.
  • Square footage.
  • Flooring type (e.g., hardwood, tile, or carpet).
  • Appliances included.
  • Heating and cooling systems.

Unique Selling Points

Highlight what makes your property stand out. For example:

  • Proximity to schools, parks, or public transportation.
  • Modern upgrades like smart home technology.
  • Outdoor spaces such as a balcony, patio, or backyard.
  • Pet-friendly policies.

Community and Neighborhood

Describe the neighborhood’s vibe and amenities, such as nearby shopping centers, restaurants, and walking trails.

Rental Terms

Be transparent about the terms to set clear expectations. Include:

  • Monthly rent amount
  • Lease duration
  • Security deposit
  • Utilities covered (or not covered)
  • Application process details

Use Clear and Engaging Language

Your tone should be professional yet inviting. Avoid overly technical jargon or vague statements. For example:

Instead of: “Apartment available with 2 beds,” write: “This beautifully updated 2-bedroom apartment features an open-concept layout with a modern kitchen, perfect for entertaining.”

Make sure your language is free of spelling and grammatical errors. Poorly written listings can give the impression of neglect or unprofessionalism.

Optimize Your Listing for Search Engines

Many potential residents use online platforms to search for rentals, so optimizing your listing for search engines can increase its visibility. Include location-specific keywords naturally, such as:

  • “2-bedroom apartment in downtown Seattle”
  • “Pet-friendly rental near Central Park”

Use common phrases renters search for, like “move-in ready,” “low deposit,” or “utilities included.” However, avoid keyword stuffing, as it can make your listing look unnatural.

Highlight Amenities and Perks

Amenities often seal the deal for potential residents. Be sure to list all included perks, such as:

  • On-site parking or garages.
  • In-unit laundry.
  • Fitness centers or swimming pools.
  • Security features like gated access or smart locks.
  • Flexible lease options.

If your property offers unique amenities, like a rooftop garden or EV charging stations, spotlight them in your description.

Call to Action

End your listing with a strong call to action (CTA) that encourages readers to take the next step. Examples include:

  • “Schedule a tour today and see why this apartment is perfect for you!”
  • “Contact us now to apply and make this beautiful home yours.”

  • Make it easy for potential residents to reach you by providing multiple contact options, such as phone, email, or an online inquiry form.

Avoid Common Mistakes

Even small errors can discourage potential residents from considering your property. Here’s what to avoid:

  • Inaccurate Information: Double-check that all details, like rental price and address, are accurate.
  • Cluttered Layout: Use bullet points and headers to make your listing easy to read.
  • Lack of Information: Missing crucial details, like pet policies or lease terms, can result in unnecessary inquiries.

The Role of Professional Property Management

Writing and managing property listings can be time-consuming, especially if you own multiple rentals or have other responsibilities. This is where professional property management companies come in.

Here are some of the benefits of working with a professional property management company:

Expertise in Marketing

Property managers know how to craft compelling listings that attract high-quality residents. They understand what renters are looking for and can emphasize features that appeal to your target audience.

Access to Professional Networks

Property management companies often have access to premium listing platforms and advertising tools that ensure your property reaches a wider audience.

Professional Photography and Staging

Many property managers offer or coordinate professional photography and staging services, making your property stand out from the competition.

Streamlined Communication

Property managers handle inquiries, schedule showings, and follow up with interested applicants, saving you time and effort.

Ensuring Compliance with Fair Housing Laws

Writing property listings requires attention to fair housing laws to avoid discriminatory language. Property management companies are well-versed in these regulations, ensuring your listings are compliant.

Maximizing ROI

A professional manager's expertise can help reduce vacancy rates and attract long-term residents, ultimately maximizing your rental income.

If you find writing property listings overwhelming or don’t have the time to handle all aspects of marketing your rental, partnering with a property management company can be an excellent solution.

Review and Update Regularly

Your listing should evolve with your property. If you make upgrades, adjust the description to include new features. Periodically updating your listing ensures it remains accurate and appealing.

Conclusion

A well-crafted property listing is your most powerful tool for attracting the right tenants and minimizing vacancy time.

By crafting an engaging title, showcasing high-quality photos, and providing detailed, accurate descriptions, you can effectively highlight what makes your rental property stand out.

If you’d prefer a more hands-off approach, partnering with a professional property management company like Redsail Property Management can ensure your property is marketed effectively—while saving you time, effort, and stress.

Reach out to Redsail today to learn how we can help you maximize your rental’s potential.