Enhancing Your Rental Listing Without Staging: Small Touches That Make a Big Impact

As a newer Realtor, I’ve had more rental listings than homes for sale. I know how powerful staging can be, but it often doesn't make sense for rental properties. Most agents do the bare minimum: photos, a sign, a lockbox, posting to the MLS and other sites, and maybe leaving a few business cards in the home.

While being prompt in answering calls, texts, emails, and online messages is crucial, there are some additional touches that I find can truly enhance a rental listing. Here are a few extra things I do when listing a rental property:

Flowers:

Flowers add life to a vacant home! They don’t even have to be fresh—faux flowers can work well as long as they look realistic. Placing flowers in strategic areas allows potential tenants to envision how they might personalize the space.

Waters in the Fridge:

Adding sparkling or still water to the fridge goes a long way. Since most vacant homes have their AC set at a higher temperature, I want my clients and potential tenants to take their time and enjoy the experience. Having a cool drink ready makes a warm house more inviting!

Toilet Paper:

Absolutely nobody wants to be stuck in a home without toilet paper when they desperately need it! I keep a few rolls in my trunk to ensure my listings are stocked. It’s a small but crucial detail.

Essential Oils:

I always keep tea tree oil or eucalyptus on hand for showings. Before clients arrive, I drop a few drops down the sinks and run the faucet to spread a fresh scent throughout the home. While some agents might prefer candles, I steer clear of those for safety reasons. You could also use a Pura or plug-in scent, but I prefer clean ingredients.

Is there something you’ve seen in a listing that impressed you? Please share in the comments below :)