Los Angeles is a uniquely diverse landscape, which makes it one of the most vibrant and exciting places to live in the entire country. It also makes for a highly competitive rental market as people rent here for many reasons.
Some come here for short-term work while others are lifelong renters more interested in finding a place to call home for the long term. As an owner or property manager, part of your job is to keep vacancies to a minimum, but marketing to such a varied cross-section of people is a challenge in itself.
You don’t just want tenants—you want the right ones who will pay on time, respect the space, and stick around.
However, attracting quality tenants in LA’s saturated market isn’t without challenges. To attract the right people, you need a strategy that speaks to their motivations and preferences. By tailoring your approach to the tenant you want to attract, you’ll save time and effort and keep those units occupied.
Here are a few tips to attract tenants even when the markets are tough.
Six Tips to Attract Quality Renters in Los Angeles
1. Sell your location
Every LA neighborhood has a vibe unto itself. Your marketing should lean into the location and what’s so cool about it, especially what’s within walking distance. Even if your building is in the depths of Reseda, proximity to transit, parks, schools, or freeways can be attractive to certain people. The bottom line is that quality tenants aren’t just looking for a place to crash—they want a home base that fits their lifestyle.
2. Show off your amenities
Your amenities may make all the difference in a renter’s choice. Some of the more popular amenities in today’s LA include:
- In-unit laundry is super attractive to those with busy lifestyles.
- Air conditioning is not a luxury—it’s essential.
- Smart technology like connected appliances, thermostats, access systems, keyless locks, smart doorbells, and lighting control is a definite perk for tech-savvy Angelinos.
- EV charging. Even a shared charging station can help you seal the deal.
- Pet-friendly policies. More than two-thirds of Angelinos own pets and will prefer a property that caters to them. Bonus points if there’s a park nearby.
- Fast, reliable internet is imperative.
- Outdoor common spaces encourage socializing and attract tenants who are more likely to make friends and plant roots.
- Fitness centers with well-maintained equipment and 24-hour access.
- Pool and spa facilities are always a nice bonus.
- Bike storage supports the eco-conscious cycling trend.
- Secure parking and lobby. Everyone wants to feel safe at home. Emphasize your security strategy.
Lastly, ensure your amenities are serviceable, updated, and in tip-top shape. Your attention to detail shows you care about your tenants and their comfort.
3. Boost your online presence
More renters today search and research properties online, including on social media. If your property does not have a website or social pages, maybe it’s time it did. Keep your online presence up to date by posting listings and vacancies, posting community news, sharing updates, and engaging with current tenants. Think of it as a marketing plan. Highlight your brand and its personality, and provide helpful content like tips for DIY projects, etc.
While your website is ground zero for social media, it can help you engage with people in real-time. Recent data indicates that 80% of renters use social platforms to inform their search and that 43% are likely to engage through a property’s social pages. If you can meet them where they are, you remove a layer of complexity and quite possibly get people in units faster.
4. Understand the local rental market
If you price your units higher than the local market will bear, you’re unlikely to attract any tenants, no matter how cool and luxe your amenities may be. You need to ensure that what you’re charging is competitive. Peak season for rentals is May through September, during which time you may be able to increase. Be mindful of seasonal fluctuations, local availability, and market rates. Supply and demand are considerations, but they are not the only ones. On the other side of the coin, setting a price that’s too low may set off red flags, causing people to avoid your property altogether.
5. Consider offering move-in incentives
Say you have a prospective tenant who’s having commitment issues. Be open to offering them incentives to tip the scales, such as including a utility in the rent or giving them a discounted rate on their deposit. Flexible lease terms could also be a deal-changer, especially if they’re in LA on a contract and unsure whether it will translate to long-term work. Your ability to accommodate could be the good news they’re looking for!
6. Articulate your rent control policies
Rent control in Los Angeles comes with various rules, which may differ from neighborhood to neighborhood. Though it can be complicated, providing transparency will help you build trust. Fully explain your increase policies and expectations around lease renewals. Nobody wants a surprise six months into a tenancy.
Renting Is a Relationship, Not Just a Transaction
The best, most desirable tenants will care for your space like they own it. They don’t just want a place to put their stuff, they want to feel like it’s for them—a safe, respectful place where they know their opinions matter.
How you communicate is vital.
- Respond to inquiries
- Be straightforward but flexible during lease negotiations.
- If something breaks, fix it fast.
- Remember their names and what they’re all about.
Attracting great tenants in LA is tough in today’s challenging market, but plenty of great renters are out there—and it’s within your power to appeal to them. Offer them a home, a lifestyle, and a strong landlord-tenant relationship, and you’ll win every time.
Working with a residential property manager can help keep you on the right side of rent control legislation and ensure your property uses every opportunity to attract and retain quality tenants.
Book a call with us today to learn how we help.
