How to Stage Your Rental Property

Research shows that staging a home for sale does work to raise perceived value and selling prices. But does it work for raising asking rents and tenant leads?

One key point to make about attracting good renters, is that images of an empty rental unit don’t create warm and fuzzy feelings. Staged rooms on the other hand present visual proof the apartment or house is clean, livable, and in a good state of repair. They look good in online tours and in-person tours.

A staged home gives the prospective renter proof that they’re not wasting their time. Stage rentals better communicate real living spaces and prestige, and they stand out in online rental listings — beating competitors’ rental units.

Why Don’t Renters Like an Apartment/House?

• it looks outdated or run down (hasn’t been refreshed or renovated)
• it looks depressing (not enough natural light, windows, dark colors)
• looks cramped and uncomfortable (not enough living space)
• looks unclean and neglected (poor maintenance)
• can’t see how clean it is (close up photos)
• too pricey for what’s offered
• lack of amenities

Stage it and Promote It!

In this post, we’re suggesting that putting more effort into rental home staging, in the form of cleaning, painting, touchups, nice furnishings, interesting listing photos, videos and 3D tours will help you achieve better tenancy results and revenue.

Staging is sometimes used for low-quality, tough-to-rent units, but why not use it to maximize rent and get a better, more desirable tenant?

Property manager on staging rentals — from Biggerpockets.com

Sell the Sizzle, Not the Steak

You’ve heard that many times, and it’s worth repeating.

America’s greatest salesman, Elmer Wheeler once said «sell the sizzle, not the steak.» An empty unit doesn’t have much sizzle. Does a blank slate really work to help, or is it more a sign of desperation for any applicant?

Empty, lonely spaces aren’t a great marketing and sales asset that will generate great prospect leads, justify your asking rent or help you raise it. The old belief in letting apartment hunters visualize it as they wish, is not effective today.

Showcasing and staging your «product» builds your business brand, and property value, and fills in the key details to bring your offer into focus for your target renters.

Without staging, your vacancy listing campaign may not be fruitful, so let’s dive into this topic so you can stage it right.

How to Stage a Rental Unit

Let’s make this simple for you so you’ve got a process and essential points to cover to stage your rental unit well.

A lot of factors, features, benefits, visuals and messages come into play to stage and present your units well. Go back to your ideal renter profile. Design a staging layout that appeals to that specific renter. They’re out there and you can reach them.

Cover These 12 Important Tips for Rental Staging:

Impact via Cleanliness and Maintenance: Ensure the rental unit is spotlessly clean, and all maintenance issues are addressed. This includes fixing any leaks, replacing worn-out fixtures, and ensuring all appliances are in good working condition. A well-maintained property gives a positive first impression.
Neutral Decor: Opt for a neutral color scheme for the walls, flooring, and major furnishings. Neutral colors are less distracting and welcoming and it may make the unit look like new construction and thus more appealing.
Good Lighting: Warm natural light is preferable, so perhaps take photos on an overcast day or lightly sunny day so you can open the curtains or blinds to allow sunlight in. Glaring sun can make photos difficult. For artificial lighting, use warm and inviting bulbs that create a cozy atmosphere. Some LED lights too will help illuminate better for the human eye.
Space Optimization: Arrange furniture to maximize the space and create an open, airy feel. Avoid overcrowding rooms with too much furniture. A well-organized and spacious look is inviting.
Depersonalize: Remove personal items and family photos. The goal is to help potential renters envision the space as their own and not be affected by things they don’t like.
Curb Appeal: Don’t forget about the exterior. Ensure the property’s exterior is well-maintained. Trim the landscaping, paint the front door if needed, and make sure the entrance is welcoming.
Quality Furnishings: Invest in quality, well-maintained furnishings. Good-quality furniture, bedding, and decor items create an upscale impression and may justify a higher rental price.
Minor Repairs and Touch-Ups: Take care of any minor repairs, such as chipped paint, loose cabinet handles, or squeaky doors. These small details can make a big difference in the impression of the property.
Kitchen and Bathroom Appeal: Kitchens and bathrooms are important rooms for renters. Clean and organize these spaces meticulously so when the renter zooms in online to check surfaces, details, and fixtures, they’ll get their proof you’re a conscientious landlord.
Professional Photography: Buy a high-quality mobile phone for landlords, and you’ll be able to take high-quality images of the rental unit.
Virtual Tours: In the age of online marketing, consider offering virtual tours of the rental unit. This allows prospective tenants to explore the property from the comfort of their own homes.
Well-Written Descriptions: In your online listing, craft compelling and informative descriptions to resonate with your targeted renter. Highlight the unit’s key features, such as its location, amenities, room sizes, windows, appliances and other unique selling points. The online listing sets expectations and they will come in with strong leasing intent.

We’re certain you’ll be able to get your asking rent and more by staging your rental apartment. And you’re the pro who can make it happen!

Immerse yourself in all the helpful tips here on the ManageCasa blog, your best resource for successful property management.

See all the features you’ll be enjoying with ManageCasa. Manage your properties better.

More from our Property Management Blog: Top Mid Tier Property Management Software | Property Management Software |Marketing Websites | Writing Vacancy Listings | Rental Photography | Rental Apartments | Virtual Tours | Setting Rent Price | Rent Negotiation | Getting Tenants to Pay Rent  | How to Find a Good Tenant | How to Spot Rental Application Fraud |  Apartmentalize 2024