You have gone through the “legal” legwork and have our home “make ready” so now it is time to get a renter in the home. To do this, you will need to decide how much your rental property is going to rent for, as well as where and how you are going to advertise the home for rent.
How do you decide what the rent is for your rental property? Try Craigslist or other local listings for rental rates of comparable properties. The classifieds sections of local news websites can also help. Checking with online vendors such as Rent Range may be an option, too. Remember that what you think your home is worth (what will cover the mortgage, etc.) most times is not the same as what the market will bear.
When determining security deposit amounts make sure you understand your State Statute (if applicable) with regard to maximum amounts. Many States limit the amount of security deposit you can charge for your rental property to cover damages from a renter. Determining market rental rates in Utah County and appropriate deposit amounts will take about an hour of your time.
Once the market rent and security deposit amount have been determined, it is time to post the property for rent. Taking photos and/or video may seem like a great idea, but make sure you take the time to get the right shots. Remember you are selling a renter to live in your rental property, and dark, ambiguous, or ill-centered (sideways, upside down) photos will not show your property in the best light. When taking photos in the bathrooms, for instance, make sure the toilet seat is down and you are not a “ghost” in the mirror. If the room has a large window that brings in natural light, take
Dark photos do not make your rental property look attractive.