When creating a listing for print or online, it is important that copy accurately describes the property. However, finding ways to come up with intriguing and accurate descriptions can be difficult. Often property managers will just use the same description over and over again with little to no results. Writing a listing takes a little practice, but with the right guidance you’ll easily be able to attract the potential renters you need. Here are some tips to get you inspired:

 

Start With A Catchy Headline

 

On certain listing platforms like Craigslist and Backpage, readers will see your headline before anything else. So taking the time to craft something that will stand out from the other listings is critical. Here are some ideas to get you thinking:

 

—    Highlight an amenity: “Swimsuit not included” or “You’ll love this floorplan”

—    Focus on price: “So much for so little” or “Save on utilities”

—    Speak to the neighborhood: “A sanctuary in the city” or “Food truck adjacent”

—    Help them understand the lifestyle: “Curl up by the fireplace” or “Meet your canine neighbors”

 

Five Keywords To Avoid In The Body

 

Once you have their attention, you’ll need to write the description. The most important thing is word choice. There are some words that are used commonly that can negatively impact your sales potential. Here are five keywords you should try to avoid and what you could say instead:

 

—    Clean: If you have to make note that an apartment is clean, then readers are going to assume it is not. Try words like bright, immaculate, and impeccable instead.

—    Cheap: The word cheap doesn’t speak to the cost, it speaks to the quality. Try affordable or inexpensive instead.

—    Modern: Modern is overused, so it is a relatively meaningless term. Try updated or upgraded instead.

—    Cozy: Cozy usually means dark or small. Use cheerful or delightful.

—    Original: Potential renters can take original to mean “never been updated.” Instead use vintage or period.

 

Five Keywords That Sell

 

Recently, Zillow did a survey and found there are certain keywords that helped not only fill vacancies. Some of these terms included:

 

—    Luxurious

—    Captivating

—    Remodel

—    Beautiful

—    Gentle

 

Try to find ways to work these top selling keywords into your advertisements.

 

Don’t Forget The Nuts And Bolts

 

On some listing platforms, you’ll fill out a form that has all the rooms, amenities, and location listed. However, if you are advertising your rental property off the beaten path, you want to make sure that you also include all these important details. Make sure to include:

 

—    Bedrooms, bathrooms, and square footage

—    Rent, deposit, and lease terms

—    Apartment features, building amenities, and location information

 

These easy steps will get you started writing listings that grab attention. Remember to also include great photographs with your listings to close the deal. For other tips on how to fill your vacancies, talk to the experts at Occupancy Solutions. We can help you develop a marketing campaign that works for your rental. Contact us to learn more!