What is the best way to advertise my rental property and attract good tenants?

Start with strong presentation

High-quality photography

• Use bright, clear photos taken in daylight with curtains open.
• Show full rooms rather than close-ups.
• Highlight key features such as modern kitchens, garden space, parking or view.
• Avoid clutter - tenants judge the property within the first few images.

Floorplans matter

Listings with floorplans get more enquiries because tenants can picture the layout and flow of the home. It reduces time-wasting viewings and attracts serious applicants.

Create a compelling description

• Lead with your biggest selling points: location, upgrades, size, outdoor space.
• Be honest and clear: gaps or vague descriptions reduce trust.
• Include practical details: commuting links, school catchments, local amenities.
• State restrictions upfront (pets, smoking, parking rules) to avoid mismatches.

Advertise on the right platforms

Major property portals

The strongest enquiries come from portals like Rightmove, Zoopla and OnTheMarket - tenants often search here first. Working with an agent such as Farrell Heyworth ensures your rental appears in the right places with professional listings.

Lettings websites and local networks

• Housing association lists (for certain types of tenants).
• Local community boards or workplace noticeboards.

However, for quality and reliability, the main portals outperform social channels in both volume and quality of tenant enquiries.

Price it correctly

Overpricing is one of the biggest reasons rentals sit empty. Research similar properties locally and speak with a local agent to understand real demand. A well-priced property:

• Attracts more tenants quickly.
• Reduces void periods (lost rent).
• Gives you more choice and control over who you accept.

Sometimes setting a competitive rent can secure longer-term tenants who look after your home better.

Create a listing that builds trust

Include full compliance information

• EPC rating
• Gas safety certificate availability
• Electrical safety compliance

Tenants feel more comfortable enquiring about a property that clearly meets legal standards.

Show stability and professionalism

• Make it clear if you use a managing agent.
• Outline the deposit scheme used.
• Mention if the tenancy is long-term or flexible.

Quality tenants prefer landlords who take paperwork and obligations seriously.

Respond quickly to enquiries

Tenants often enquire about multiple properties at once. Responding quickly can be the difference between securing a great tenant and missing out.

• Reply the same day where possible.
• Be polite, clear and professional.
• Offer flexible viewing times, including early evenings or weekends when necessary.

Offer high-quality viewings

A well-managed viewing makes tenants feel confident and respected.

• Ensure the property is clean, aired and well-lit.
• Have keys and access ready - avoid delays at the door.
• Answer questions openly about appliances, heating, local parking and bills.
• Give tenants time to look around freely, not rushed.

Screen tenants properly

Attracting good tenants is only half the job - securing them safely is the other half. Use:

• Credit checks to confirm affordability.
• Income verification (payslips, employer references).
• Previous landlord references if applicable.

A professional letting agent provides robust screening, ensuring you select a reliable, respectful tenant.

How legal changes affect advertising (Renters' Rights Bill)

The upcoming Renters' Rights Bill introduces new rules that will affect how landlords advertise properties:

• Mandatory landlord registration: You will need to be registered on the national PRS database before advertising.
• Display of registration number: Listings may need to show your landlord ID.
• Stronger transparency: Tenants will be able to check EPCs, compliance status and your registered details before viewing.
• Ban on rent bidding: Advertised rent must be the rent you expect - no encouraging offers above the listing price.

These changes make clear, accurate, compliant advertising more important than ever.

North West perspective

In Lancashire, Cumbria and the wider North West, demand for well-presented, fairly priced rental homes remains strong. Properties close to commuter routes, schools, universities and hospitals attract enquiries within days when marketed well. Professional advertising with high-quality imagery and accurate descriptions consistently outperforms DIY landlord listings.

How Farrell Heyworth helps landlords attract great tenants

At Farrell Heyworth, we offer a full marketing and tenant-find service designed to secure reliable tenants quickly. Our team provides:

• Professional photography, descriptions and floorplans.
• Advertising on major portals (Rightmove, Zoopla, OnTheMarket).
• Pre-screening and reference checks.
• Legally compliant tenancy agreements and deposit protection.
• Fully managed services if you prefer hands-off letting.

The best way to attract high-quality tenants is to combine strong marketing, accurate pricing, quick responses and professional presentation. With new regulations on the horizon, compliant advertising is essential - and working with an experienced local agent ensures you stay ahead of the rules while reducing voids and improving tenant quality.

Ready to market your rental?

Contact Farrell Heyworth for expert lettings advice, professional advertising and fast tenant sourcing across the North West.