How do I get the word out when I have a unit available? Craigslist of course! The trick is to make your post stand out. Photos are the key. I take the dreamy-est photos I can.

The title of the listing is also key. I use as many key words as possible. ie bungalow, hardwood floors, foothills, 1920’s. My units appeal to people who like a place with character. My headlines reflect that the property is unique.

Recently I have done video tours of the units. I start by panning the street and the exterior and do a complete walk through with the camera. I post the video on youtube and have the link in my ad. The result is that while I get fewer calls, the prospects who do call are more interested and are better qualified. They have already seen the place!

In the body of my ads I describe the unit and amenities in detail, but I also tell people about the area and why they would want to live there. This is key for the out of towners but also for those who live in town currently and want to try a new neighborhood. For instance, we have great hiking trails, beautiful parks and a fantastic public swim center. Also, I tell people about the drive time to downtown and Hollywood. The drive time to work is key for someone considering where they might like to live.

Where else do I advertise? I buy a showcase ad with a local rental service called Westside Rentals. It is expensive but I get the visibility and that is what counts. They also allow the link for the video tour.

Recently, I bought an ad on rent.com. I have gotten several calls and am impressed so far. Rent.com is an ebay company and is getting some traffic.

Bottom line, I am open to everything that works. Instead of rental specials, I focus on quality of life. It has been my experience that people will find value in quality and those are the tenants that I am seeking.

Right now, I have a unit that is ready to show. My ads are posted and I am ready to meet my new tenant. Let the fun begin!