Because we have a near-perfect climate all year long in San Diego, it’s easy to forget that there are seasonal shifts impacting our daily lives and the way we run our businesses. Seasons are especially important when it comes to renting out your property. Timing is everything. The month you choose to market your rental home can impact how long your vacancy is, how much you can charge in rent, and what your pool of prospective tenants will look like.
RentSimpli is a full-service San Diego property management company specializing in single family homes, townhouses, condos, mobile homes, small commercial buildings and small apartments. We service San Diego to Riverside. Our experience has shown us that the best time to market and list your rental home is during the spring and summer. Today, we’re talking about why your marketing strategy depends on the season.
Market Your San Diego Rental Home in Spring and Summer
The best time to market your rental property in San Diego and Riverside counties are during the spring and summer months. You’ll rent it faster and you’ll rent it to high quality tenants. You’ll also be able to price it at the higher end of your rental range. There are a few important reasons for this:
- Families with children are less likely to move during the school year. It’s easier for them to find a home and do all the moving during the summer, when kids are out of school.
- College students begin classes at the end of September. They’ll want to settle into a new home earlier in the month, which means they’ll be looking for a place to rent in May, June, or July.
- Few people want to move over the holidays. There are more than enough details to manage throughout November and December without adding moving to the list. Packing up a house and moving to another is low on the list of things potential renters are thinking about.
Marketing San Diego Rental Homes in the Down Season
When you have a home vacancy during October, November, or December, it’s important to be strategic in the way you market it to potential tenants. Be willing to compete by reducing your rent or providing other incentives to attract good tenants to your home. You’ll have to help your property stand out, and that may include a competitive price.
One thing we recommend is to structure your lease agreement to avoid a vacancy during the late fall and early winter. Most leases are 12 months, but if your lease runs the risk of ending in October or November, extend the terms of the lease. Extending through the end of January better positions you than if you have to market your property in November.
Every situation is unique, and if you’re able to avoid marketing your rental property during those down season months, you’ll likely have better results with increased rental income. If you find yourself with a vacant home in October or November, you may face additional challenges as you rent your property, but it is not hopeless! Creative marketing and competitive pricing will best position your property to attract high quality tenants.
If you have questions about how to manage the seasons when it comes to renting out a San Diego or Riverside property, contact us. RentSimpli is a full-service property management company serving landlords, investors, and property owners in San Diego and Riverside Counties, including La Mesa, El Cajon, Chula Vista, Santee, Rancho Bernardo, Escondido, Fallbrook, Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee and more.