Here are the 3 best ways to fill vacancies in the market today and how to differentiate your rental property from others.
By Nancy Abrams
A rental vacancy can cut deeply into a property owner’s cash flow. For each month that your unit remains vacant, your carrying costs and utility bills still have to be covered.
In a “normal” market, most landlords need only to put out a “For Rent” sign to get a new tenant. But in 2025, when the market is so unpredictable, how can you beat out the competition and get your space rented quickly? Two words: residential marketing.
Think of your vacancy as a product that needs to be marketed—just as you would any product in the marketplace:
- What makes your vacant apartment different than the one down the street?
- Why will your tenant be happier in your rental?
- Lead with what your prospective tenant cares about the most.
The following amenities are demonstrated ways to differentiate your space from the competition. Adopt them, advertise them and attract more applicants.
3 Best Ways to Fill Vacancies in Today’s Market
- Rent reporting: Until recently, money paid out as rent did nothing to benefit a person’s credit rating. Now, you can report rent payments to the credit bureaus to be included in most credit reports. The nominal charge will be far outweighed by the benefits to both you and the tenant.
- Upgraded internet and streaming apps: Keyless entry systems, smart thermostats and Netflix are tops among the amenities expected by today’s renters. Newer buildings offer smart technologies, but if you have an older property, upgrade it. Include popular streaming channels. The cost will attract tenants that seek reliable connectivity. It will quickly pay for itself.
- Referral program: Encourage existing tenants to refer prospective tenants to your properties. Offer something renters actually want, such as Venmo cash, free rent or gift cards for successful referrals. These programs can significantly reduce turnover, increase occupancy and boost tenant satisfaction.
By knowing what amenities and services renters want, you can adjust your marketing and ensure it meets their needs. The key here is to know your audience to attract and retain renters long term.
About the author:
Nancy Abrams is content editor for AAOA (the American Apartment Owners Association). AAOA assists landlords, property managers, real estate owners and brokers across the country with managing their properties, including tenant credit checks and tenant background screening as well as state-specific landlord forms, such as a rental application or rental agreement. The association also offers resources from educational webinars and landlord tenant law to approved providers for insurance and financing. Contact us today to learn more.
