Top 5 tips for attracting great renters
Liz Pollock
13 April 2025
Some properties lease quickly. Others sit empty. The difference usually isn’t luck — or price. It’s the experience you create.
Today’s renters are looking for more than a place to live. They want a home that’s well cared for, a property manager they can trust, and a smooth, stress-free experience. The most successful agencies know this — and it shows. They attract renters who pay on time, look after the property, and often stay for years.
Here’s how they do it — and how you can, too.
1. Set the standard from day 1
Make maintenance your competitive advantage
Proactive maintenance sets exceptional properties apart from the competition. When renters walk through a property where everything works perfectly—from the tap pressure to the door handles—they immediately sense the level of care and professionalism behind the management.
But it’s not just about what they see. Renters rarely know about the systems working behind the scenes — unless you tell them. Whether it’s a pre-inspection checklist, a structured maintenance plan, or a responsive team of trusted tradies, showing renters that you take upkeep seriously helps build confidence from day one.
And for owners, that same consistency helps reduce costs, avoid emergencies, and protect the long-term value of their investment.
Small upgrades that make a big difference
Strategic upgrades don’t always call for large budgets to make a noticeable impact. A fresh coat of paint in warm whites or gentle greys, for instance, has often been shown to create a more inviting atmosphere and broaden a property’s appeal.
Many property managers say renters respond well to practical upgrades that make day-to-day life easier — like built-in storage, energy-efficient appliances, or quality window furnishings. These small touches often signal that the property is well maintained, and can make a difference when it comes to choosing between two similar homes.
It’s also worth considering how even small adjustments can enhance a renter’s daily experience. A mirror to open up a narrow hallway, extra power points for devices, or a dedicated workspace are all examples of upgrades that can boost a property’s appeal without requiring major investment.
Street appeal sets the stage
The journey to attracting quality renters begins at the footpath. A well-maintained garden, clean exterior surfaces, and an inviting entrance create positive expectations before renters even step inside.
Simple improvements like pressure cleaning driveways, trimming overgrown vegetation, and ensuring house numbers are clearly visible make properties more memorable in a crowded market. Location advantages become more compelling when highlighted through thoughtful presentation.
2. Craft listings that convert browsers into applicants
Write descriptions that tell a story
Effective property descriptions move beyond basic feature lists to paint a picture of the lifestyle on offer. Headlines that capture attention in crowded online marketplaces often highlight the property's most compelling benefit. "Sun-soaked terrace overlooking leafy parkland" creates more interest than "Two-bedroom unit with balcony."
The most engaging descriptions balance comprehensive detail with easy readability. Busy renters scanning multiple listings appreciate clear information about practical matters like parking and lease terms presented in an accessible format.
Photography and presentation essentials
Professional photography represents one of the most valuable investments in rental marketing. High-quality images that showcase natural light, space flow, and key features can dramatically increase inquiry rates and help properties stand out in online searches.
Virtual tours have become increasingly important for renters who may be relocating from interstate or have limited time for physical inspections. These tools allow serious applicants to pre-qualify themselves while reducing unnecessary inspections.
Highlight what makes your property special
Every property has something that sets it apart — the key is knowing who it’s for and making sure they see the value. Neighbourhood amenities often prove as important as the property itself. Proximity to quality schools, public transport, cafes, and recreational facilities can be decisive factors for renters choosing between similar properties.
Transparency about policies and expectations actually improves application quality by filtering out unsuitable candidates early in the process. Clear communication about pet policies, smoking restrictions, and maintenance responsibilities attracts renters who align with these requirements.
3. Attract renters who care like owners
Build a screening process that works
Comprehensive renter screening protects both property owners and creates better living experiences for all parties. The most effective screening processes verify income stability, rental history, and personal references while maintaining fair and consistent standards.
Many property managers use the guideline that rent should ideally represent no more than 30% of gross household income — though this can vary depending on location and lifestyle. Previous landlord references provide insights into property care, lease compliance, and communication patterns.
Credit checks can provide additional context around payment patterns — but many agencies consider the full application rather than relying on any single data point.
Ask the right questions during inspections
Property inspections offer valuable opportunities to assess renter suitability beyond paperwork. Thoughtful questions about relocation reasons, lifestyle preferences, and future plans help identify renters likely to stay long-term.
Understanding why renters are moving—whether for work, family reasons, or lifestyle changes—provides context for their housing needs and likely tenancy duration. Renters relocating for career advancement often prove more stable than those moving due to disputes or financial pressures.
Flexible lease terms that attract quality candidates
Adapting lease structures to different renter demographics can significantly expand the pool of quality applicants. Young professionals might prefer shorter initial terms with renewal options, while families often seek longer-term stability.
In some cases, incentives for longer lease commitments — such as rent adjustments or minor upgrades — may encourage renter retention. Always ensure any offers comply with relevant tenancy laws in your state or territory.
4. Build loyalty through small moments
Communication that builds trust
Responsive communication during the application process sets the tone for the entire tenancy relationship. "We would call, we would phone tag with people telling them how many days they were behind and asking them to call us back. There's just none of that," explains Carmen Jackson, Property Manager at Ray White Maitland. Clear communication from the initial inspection through to lease signing helps establish positive relationships that continue throughout the tenancy.
Establishing clear communication channels from day one prevents confusion and builds confidence in the management service. Proactive updates about property maintenance, neighbourhood developments, or lease renewal options demonstrate professional management and help renters feel informed and valued.
Create experiences that renters value
Exceptional property management extends beyond basic maintenance and rent collection to create positive living experiences. Small gestures like welcome packages for new renters or seasonal property check-ins can significantly impact satisfaction levels.
Value-added services that address common renter concerns—such as coordinating utility connections or providing local area information—differentiate professional management from basic service provision.
Turn satisfied renters into your best marketing tool
Word-of-mouth referrals from happy renters represent the most powerful and cost-effective marketing available. Renters who feel well-cared-for naturally recommend their property manager to friends and colleagues seeking rental accommodation.
Consistent service delivery builds reputation over time, creating a competitive advantage that's difficult for competitors to replicate. Properties managed by well-regarded agents often attract higher-quality applicants and achieve better rental returns.
5. Use technology to scale without losing the personal touch
Automate the routine, personalise the important
Technology should make your day easier — not more complicated. The right tools help you cut back admin and free up time for what matters most: looking after renters and growing your business. Automated rent collection, maintenance scheduling, and communication tracking improve efficiency without sacrificing service quality.
The most effective technology enhances rather than replaces personal service. Digital tools that provide renters with convenient self-service options while maintaining human touchpoints for important decisions create the best of both worlds.
Data-driven decisions for better outcomes
Analytics help optimise rental pricing, marketing timing, and property positioning based on market trends and historical performance. Properties priced and marketed using data insights typically achieve faster lettings and better rental returns.
Tracking metrics like inquiry rates, inspection-to-application ratios, and average vacancy periods reveals which strategies work most effectively for specific property types and locations.
Predictive insights for maintenance and renter management help prevent problems before they impact renter satisfaction or property condition. This proactive approach builds trust and reduces long-term costs.
Attracting quality renters requires a thoughtful combination of property preparation, strategic marketing, and genuine relationship building. The most successful property managers understand that every interaction shapes renter perceptions and influences long-term outcomes.
Rather than focusing solely on filling vacancies quickly, the integrated approach outlined here builds sustainable competitive advantages through superior service delivery and renter satisfaction. Properties managed with this comprehensive strategy consistently attract better renters, achieve higher retention rates, and generate stronger returns for property owners.
Great renters don’t just land by luck — they stay because of how you manage the relationship. When every touchpoint feels consistent, transparent, and fair, your properties stand out. And when renters feel looked after, they stay longer — and tell their friends.
When every touchpoint feels considered and consistent, renters notice — and they stay. That’s how strong relationships (and stronger returns) are built.
Want to see how Ailo supports standout renter experiences? Let’s chat.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it usually take to find a great renters?
Many property managers tell us well-presented properties with clear, competitive listings attract serious interest within the first week. If things are quiet after two, it’s worth checking whether your pricing, photos, or listing copy are doing the property justice.
What's the most cost-effective way to improve a property's appeal to renters?
Fresh paint in neutral tones and thorough cleaning deliver the biggest impact for minimal investment. These simple updates make spaces feel larger, brighter, and well-maintained—key factors that influence renter decisions.
How do I know if my rental price is competitive in the current market?
Looking at what’s recently leased in the area — not just what’s listed — is usually the best guide. If similar homes are leasing quickly and yours isn’t, it might be time to adjust. On the flip side, strong interest could signal you’ve priced it just right (or even a little low).
What's the best way to handle multiple applications for the same property?
Focus on finding the best fit rather than rushing decisions. Consider factors like income stability, rental history, and lease term preferences. Clear communication with all applicants throughout the process maintains your professional reputation.