Step 5: Market your property and find the right tenants
Request photographic proof of identity from any potential tenants
Once your property is ready to rent, the next step is finding the right tenants and that starts with effective marketing. A well-presented listing, combined with a solid screening process, helps you attract reliable renters who respect your property and pay rent on time.
Photography matters: Invest in good lighting and take high-resolution images that highlight your property’s best features, especially kitchens, bathrooms, and outdoor space
Write a compelling listing: Describe the property clearly, including key features, nearby transport links, local amenities, and any added benefits like off-street parking or a garden
Advertise in the right places: Use online platforms and consider working with a letting agent if you want support managing viewings and enquiries
Reference tenants thoroughly: Tenant selection is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a landlord. A well-referenced tenant can reduce the risk of late payments, property damage, or disputes
Use a formal referencing process: Check employment status, income, credit history, and previous landlord references. Our referencing checklist outlines each step to help you carry out the process thoroughly and with confidence
Request proof of income: Make sure the tenant can comfortably afford the rent
Consider welcoming pet: While some landlords are understandably cautious, being open to pets particularly with responsible tenants can widen your applicant pool and reduce void periods
Finding the right tenant starts with presenting your property professionally and choosing applicants with care. Total Landlord Insurance offers an pet damage protection add-on, which covers damage caused by pets, giving landlords peace of mind while still being able to meet the evolving demands of the rental market.
For more guidance on how to attract the right renters, take a look at our rental property marketing guide, which covers the step-by-step process of advertising your property effectively.
Advertising on the right platforms
High-quality photos and listing presentation
Thorough tenant referencing