7 Tips to Make Your Rental Property Stand Out in a Tough Market

Let’s be honest—the rental market has shifted. Fewer enquiries, more choice for tenants, and longer void periods are becoming more common across Swansea and the wider SA postcode area.

After 25 years in estate agency, I’ve seen these cycles before. And while it might feel like the market has gone quiet, there are always ways to stay ahead of the competition.

So here are 7 practical, proven tips to help your rental property stand out—and get let faster, to better tenants.

1. First Impressions Count: Kerb Appeal Matters

Before tenants even step inside, they’ve already made a judgement.

• Tidy the front garden or pathway
• Repaint tired doors or windows
• Clear bins and clutter

A smart, well-kept exterior suggests a well-managed property—giving potential tenants instant confidence.

2. Modern, Clean, and Neutral Décor Wins Every Time

It’s tempting to save money by doing the bare minimum, but a little investment in décor pays off.

Stick to clean, neutral colours. Tenants want to imagine themselves living there—not be distracted by bold patterns or dated fittings.

Fresh paint, modern light fittings, and clean carpets make a huge difference.

3. Highlight Energy Efficiency

With rising energy costs, tenants are more conscious than ever about running costs.

• Make sure your EPC rating is decent
• Mention things like double glazing, energy-efficient boilers, or smart meters in your marketing

A warmer, cheaper-to-run home is far more attractive—and more likely to secure longer-term tenants.

4. Professional Photos (and a video)

This one is non-negotiable.

At SA Property, we never cut corners on presentation. Professional photos and a video,  dramatically increase engagement on portals like Zoopla and OnTheMarket.

If your current listing has dark, blurry phone pics—chances are tenants are scrolling straight past.

5. Competitive (Not Just Aspirational) Pricing

We all want to achieve the best rent—but overpricing in a quiet market can cost you weeks of lost income.

It’s better to price competitively and fill the property quickly than wait for a perfect tenant who never comes.

We’ll always give you honest, up-to-date advice based on real-time demand—not guesswork.

6. Be Flexible Where You Can

Demand may be softer, so flexibility helps.

• Consider allowing pets (with higher deposit or rent)
• Be open to different tenant types (students, working professionals, families)
• Offer longer-term or shorter-term contracts depending on demand

A wider tenant pool means more enquiries and less downtime.

7. Work with a Proactive, Local Letting Agent

And this is key.

At SA Property, we don’t just list and wait. We actively match tenants, send alerts to our database, promote on social media, and follow up fast.

We also advise you throughout—on compliance, condition, pricing and more—to protect your investment and minimise stress.

Final Word

Yes, the market might be tougher right now—but the right strategy, presentation and support can make all the difference.

If your rental property is empty, or you’re just not getting the enquiries you expected, get in touch. We’ll take a look, give you honest feedback, and help you make it tenant-ready in no time.

Pop in, call us, or drop us a message—we’re here to help you rent smarter.