As we approach a new leasing season, you should begin to take a good, hard look at your current marketing strategy to see if it can use a bit of “Fall sprucing.”

Before you determine that your property is exempt, first, check to ensure that you can check the box on each of these four things:

You Have a Social Media Account

It’s not just enough to have your property registered on a social media channel, but you must be actively posting and sharing content daily. When utilized properly, social media is a cost effective tool that has the potential to increase your community’s visibility, strengthen the relationship among your current tenants and keep you informed on trending issues or concerns. You should use these platforms to share event information, respond to resident inquiries, showcase pictures or videos of your property, and even connect with local businesses. Over 70% of the entire internet population is active on a social media site—your renters included! Why not reach them where they’re frequenting most?

You have an Engagement Strategy

In addition to using social media, there are other ways properties can engage with residents. For starters, you can host regular community events. Take a stab at hosting a potluck downstairs, game nights, pizza Fridays, and other smaller, unique functions. You can even take it to the next level by creating a partnership with a few of the neighboring restaurants in your area and hosting community nights where residents receive discounts if they dine in on that particular night. Not only will your residents connect with each other, but they will develop a deeper connection and appreciation for the property as well.

You’re Actively Responding to Reviews

It’s important to know what your current and prospective residents are saying about your property. Considering that nearly half of renters look at these ratings and review sites when searching for their next property, it becomes extremely important to actively manage your online reputation. Ensure you’re responding to concerns within 24-48 hours, and offer genuine, professional responses versus those generic acknowledgements. Always thank reviewers for taking the time to note their concern/appreciation, and encourage other residents to do the same. Act on any opportunities which offer improvement and have the potential to create a positive resident impact. By actively responding to online reviews, you can not only attract new residents but gain firsthand insight into your community.

Your Website is Up to Date

Now a days, it’s not just enough to have a website, but it should be responsive, present relevant and meaningful content, and offer an effective call-to-action. Your website should always remain updated with new, enticing pictures that showcase the uniqueness of your property, in addition to offering accurate floorplans and amenities. If you’re currently running any seasonal specials, it’s important that this information is also included on the site and is easy to locate. Some of the key qualities of the most effective websites include simplicity, consistency and guidance. Keep this in mind with your own site so that your users are able to easily locate the information they seek the most and will be less inclined to jump ship.

Rentbot can Help.

First impressions mean everything, and your website is likely the first place your prospective residents will not only land but spend the most time. Considering the importance of your website, it is only fitting that it’s a true reflection of your property. Rentbot can help you get to where you need to be. Each of our custom sites are designed with your property’s features in mind—from the well-formatted, strategic layouts to HD photos and convenient online capabilities, your Rentbot site is guaranteed to make your website look its best. Throw in SEO and a mobile responsive design and you’ll be well on your way to more tenants and better leases in no time. Give Rentbot a try today!

About the Author

Jonsette Calloway joined the Rentbot team in 2015. With a background in public relations, advertising and copywriting, she has helped a multitude of clients achieve their marketing and communications goals within various fields, but she particularly enjoys working with the apartment industry.