Many of the rental property owners we talk to have one overriding concern: tenants.
And that’s understandable. Finding quality tenants is one of the most important aspects of maintaining a profitable and low-stress rental. The right Halifax tenant pays rent on time, respects your property, and stays long-term, saving you time and money. We like working with tenants who communicate openly.
With Halifax’s rental market experiencing steady demand due to a growing population and economic development, investment property owners have a great opportunity to attract and place high quality renters.
But you have to know how to attract them.
Here’s how you can position your Halifax rental property to appeal to quality tenants.
Understand What Quality Tenants Are Looking For
Before marketing your rental, think about your property from the perspective of your ideal tenant. Quality tenants typically value:
- Safety and security
- Clean and well-maintained properties
- Fair and competitive pricing
- Responsive and respectful landlords
- Convenient location (close to work, schools, transit, or amenities)
Use these insights to evaluate your property and rental practices. This will impact how you price your property and how you market it. What can you offer? What will those tenants be most attracted to?
Enhance Curb Appeal and Reflect Property Maintenance
First impressions matter in the Halifax rental market. A well-maintained property signals to potential tenants that you take your role as a property owner seriously and expect the same in return. Even small improvements can significantly increase interest.
On the outside of the property, make sure that the lawn and any green space is mowed and the landscaping is tidy. Repaint doors or trim as needed. Ensure the lighting is working and adds to safety. Inside, you’ll want to show off fresh paint. Make sure you do a deep cleaning of carpets and appliances. Updated fixtures in the kitchen and bathrooms can get attention.
Regular maintenance also prevents long-term damage, keeping your property attractive and functional year-round. This is especially important considering Halifax’s climate with its damp winters and salty air.
Set a Competitive and Fair Rent
Setting the right rental price is going to attract well qualified tenants.
When your rental value is too high, you may deter qualified applicants. When it’s too low, you could risk attracting tenants less likely to care for the property. Or, you’ll undercut your own return on investment. For smart pricing, research comparable units in the area. When you work with a Halifax property management team, you have access to relevant, accurate data and analytics that can help you understand the market and your competition.
Next, factor in your property’s unique features. Maybe you have a washer/dryer inside the unit, there’s secure parking, a yard, or superior views.
Consider offering incentives such as free internet or a discounted first month’s rent to attract better tenants in a competitive market. Remember, quality tenants are often willing to pay slightly more for a well-maintained, well-managed property.
Market Your Property Strategically
A targeted marketing approach is helpful in leading quality tenants to your rental home. Almost everyone is checking online sites first, so make sure your listings stand out. Here’s what we include in our rental listings as Halifax property managers:
- High-quality photos (clean, bright, and wide-angle shots)
- A compelling headline (try: “Renovated 2BR in South End – Steps from Dal & Waterfront!”)
- Clear descriptions of the property’s features, location, and terms
- Key selling points for Halifax tenants (proximity to universities, downtown, ocean views)
Post your listing on high-traffic sites like Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji, and consider cross-posting to local real estate or university housing groups. Buildium also provides syncing of your listing to Zumper and Padmapper.
Screen Tenants Thoroughly and Consistently
Once you have attracted a good pool of tenants, you have to engage in serious screening in order to choose a qualified renter for your property. Here’s a step-by-step screening process:
- Application form. Make sure the application is completed and signed. Collect employment history, references, income, and prior landlord contacts.
- Credit check. Look for consistent payment history, not just a perfect score.
- Background check. Screen for any past evictions.
- References. Always call previous landlords and ask if they’d rent to the person again.
In Nova Scotia, landlords must follow the Residential Tenancies Act and human rights legislation. Avoid discriminatory questions, and always apply criteria consistently.
Offer Perks That Matter in Halifax
Think about what makes your property more livable and attractive to tenants, especially in the Halifax context. Some valuable perks include:
- In-suite laundry. This is a major plus for tenants who prioritize convenience.
- Heat included. With Halifax’s cold winters, inclusive utilities are very attractive.
- Pet-friendliness. Many quality tenants own pets, and pet-friendly rentals are limited.
- Storage or bike lockers. This amenity is particularly appealing for urban dwellers and students.
Offering small comforts or upgrades can differentiate your unit from others on the market.
Partner with a Professional Halifax Property Manager
Staying organized during the marketing and tenant screening process isn’t always easy. Partnering with a Halifax property management team can be your secret weapon in attracting the best tenants.
We handle advertising, screening, maintenance, and tenant relations professionally, and this frees you up while improving tenant satisfaction.
Attracting quality tenants in Halifax requires preparation, presentation, and professionalism. When you treat your property like a business and your tenants like valued clients, you naturally draw in the kind of people who do the same in return.
By investing in your rental’s appearance, pricing it fairly, marketing it effectively, and screening carefully, you can enjoy consistent income, fewer headaches, and a long-term return on your investment.
We’re here to offer support and resources when you’re looking for a qualified tenant for your Halifax rental property. Take advantage of our knowledge and experience and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing a team of experts placed a well-qualified tenant in your property.
Contact us at Anchor Property Management with any questions you may have, and to get started on finding a quality tenant for your investment.
