How to Attract (and Keep) Great Tenants in 2025

Greenell Properties Capital
Jun 19
2 min read

Finding tenants is easy. Finding great tenants—ones who pay on time, communicate respectfully, and treat your property like their home—is where real estate investors thrive or struggle. In 2025, with more rental options available and higher tenant expectations, it’s more important than ever to position your rental as a desirable place to live.

Whether you’re managing a single-family home or a small multifamily building, these strategies will help you attract and retain top-tier tenants in today’s market.

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1. Price Competitively and Transparently

Tenants are savvy. They use online listings, social media, and reviews to compare options. Make sure your rent is aligned with market rates for your neighborhood and property type. Price too high, and you’ll struggle with vacancy. Price too low, and you might attract unqualified or transient tenants.

Be upfront in your ads about what’s included (e.g. utilities, parking, laundry) to eliminate confusion and streamline showings.

2. Modern Amenities Matter

Tenants in 2025 expect more than four walls and a stove. Adding simple, modern touches can set your property apart:

In-unit or shared laundry
Stainless steel appliances
Smart thermostats or locks
Air conditioning
Fresh paint and modern lighting

These upgrades don’t need to be expensive but can make a huge difference in perceived value.

3. Professional Photos and Listings

Don’t post blurry photos or vague descriptions. Professional-quality photos and a well-written, clear listing dramatically increase interest and help pre-screen renters. Highlight your property's best features, nearby amenities, and public transit access.

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4. Streamline Your Application Process

Use digital rental applications and scheduling tools to save time. Tenants appreciate simplicity, and tech-savvy renters are more likely to apply if the process is efficient. Make sure your criteria are fair, consistent, and well-documented.

5. Treat Your Tenants Like Clients

Good tenants are worth keeping. Respond to maintenance requests quickly, communicate clearly, and respect their privacy. A positive landlord-tenant relationship reduces turnover and encourages lease renewals.

6. Offer Incentives for Long-Term Leases

To reduce turnover and vacancy, consider:

Offering a rent discount for a two-year lease
Including a minor upgrade at renewal (e.g. new blinds, A/C unit)
Providing gift cards or small perks at lease anniversaries

These small gestures can help keep great tenants in place longer.

Man in glasses works on a laptop at a kitchen table with a dog. Breakfast, orange juice, and coffee are on the table. Cozy mood.

Final Thoughts

Attracting and retaining high-quality tenants isn’t luck—it’s strategy. By investing in your property, streamlining your process, and treating your tenants with respect, you’ll build a reputation that attracts the kind of renters who make your real estate business run smoothly.

At Greenell Capital, we work with investors to improve property presentation, screen tenants effectively, and build systems that support long-term rental success.