How to Write a Rental Ad That Attracts Quality Tenants

Your rental ad is often the first impression a potential tenant has of your property — and you only get one chance to make it count. A weak ad attracts the wrong applicants, wastes time, and can keep your unit vacant longer than necessary.

Use the steps below to craft a clear, clickable listing that draws reliable renters who pay on time and respect your property.

1) Start With an Attention‑Grabbing Headline

Your headline should instantly tell readers what’s being offered and why it’s special. Include the property type, beds/baths, a key feature, and the location.

Good example: “Spacious 2‑Bed, 2‑Bath Condo with Pool – Downtown Orlando.”
Avoid: “Nice Apartment for Rent.”

2) Write a Clear, Detailed Description

Help prospects imagine living there. Cover:

  • Square footage and layout
  • Bedrooms, bathrooms, and key amenities (W/D, parking, balcony, fenced yard)
  • Stand‑out features (walk‑in closet, hardwood floors, smart thermostat)
  • Neighborhood highlights (parks, schools, transit, shopping)

Example copy: “This 1,200 sq ft townhouse offers 3 beds, 2.5 baths, an open‑concept kitchen with stainless appliances, and a private fenced backyard. Minutes to I‑95, shops, and dining.”

3) Use High‑Quality Photos

Listings with bright, clear photos get more clicks and better applicants.

  • Shoot in natural light; open blinds and turn on lights.
  • Take wide shots of each room + exterior + amenities.
  • Declutter and stage (remove cords, tidy countertops).
  • Add helpful captions: “Primary bedroom with en‑suite bath.”

4) Be Transparent About Rent and Terms

Upfront details save time and filter out poor fits:

  • Monthly rent and required security deposit
  • Lease length (e.g., 12 months)
  • Pet policy and any fees
  • Utilities included (if any)
  • Parking details and application requirements

5) Add a Clear Call to Action (CTA)

Tell readers exactly what to do next. Replace “Contact me if interested” with a specific action.

👉
Apply now for instant screening via ApplyConnect.

6) Avoid Discriminatory Language

Follow the Fair Housing Act and applicable state/local laws. Describe the property and terms, not the “type of tenant.” Keep criteria consistent for everyone.

7) Proofread Before Posting

Typos and unclear phrasing turn good renters away. Read the ad aloud, double‑check facts, and have a friend review it.

Bonus: Rental Ad Template You Can Copy

Headline: Bright 3‑Bed, 2‑Bath Home with Fenced Yard – Near Downtown

Description: 1,250 sq ft single‑family home featuring an open living area, updated kitchen with stainless
appliances, primary suite with walk‑in closet, and a private fenced backyard. Washer/dryer included.
Walking distance to parks and shops; 8 minutes to downtown.

Rent & Terms: $2,100/mo | Security deposit: $2,100 | 12‑month lease
Pets: Small pets considered; $300 non‑refundable fee + $25/mo pet rent
Utilities: Tenant pays all utilities
Parking: Driveway + street

Next step: Apply securely for instant screening:
https://mrg.applyconnect.com/

Final tip: Repost your listing weekly and refresh photos after any upgrades to keep it near the top of search results.

Protect your property: Before approving any tenant, run fast, FCRA‑compliant screening through
ApplyConnect — no monthly fees or setup costs.