Beyond Curb Appeal: Why Your Digital Presence Makes or Breaks the Lease

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• Renters research and decide online, so a strong digital presence is crucial for attracting high-quality leads.
• Ensure your digital footprint is informative and accessible.
• Use various digital channels to reach renters where they are.
• Build trust and attract high-quality renters through an effective reputation management strategy.

In today’s digital age, first impressions don’t happen at your doorstep – they happen online. Gone are the days of relying solely on physical curb appeal. Renters are savvy, researching and deciding where to live based on what they find online. This means that strong digital curb appeal is no longer optional; it’s essential for attracting residents.

Think of your online presence as a 24/7 open house accessible to potential renters from anywhere, anytime.

So, how do you make sure your virtual doors are welcoming and informative?

Here are 6 tips to remember as you prepare for peak leasing season.

1. Renters decide online

Before setting foot in your community, renters are researching online. They’re looking at your website, ILS, social media, reviews, and everything else the digital world throws at them. A polished online presence builds trust and convinces them you’re worth a visit (or even a virtual tour!).

2. Information is power

Renters have questions – about amenities, floorplans, policies, the neighborhood…etc! Your website and ILS should be information hubs, answering FAQs, showcasing floorplans, and providing clear contact details. The more transparent you are, the more qualified leads you attract.

3. Be everywhere, all the time

Don’t limit yourself to just one platform. Reach potential renters across various channels – search engines, social media, display ads, even geofencing. This increases your visibility and ensures you’re reaching the right audience at the right time.

4. Reputation is everything

Negative online reviews can be like a digital red flag. Implement a solid reputation management strategy. Respond to reviews promptly and professionally, address concerns, and showcase positive feedback. Remember, happy residents are your best online ambassadors!

5. Your Google Business Profile is your digital storefront

Make sure your Google Business Profile is complete, accurate, and engaging. High-quality photos, detailed descriptions, and easy directions can make all the difference in attracting foot traffic (or virtual tours!).

6. Attract qualified leads

The more information you share online, the better. Showcase your community’s unique personality, highlight resident events, and create content that resonates with your target demographic.

Remember: A strong digital presence isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about building trust, attracting qualified leads, and ultimately, filling vacancies faster.

Bonus Tip: Don’t forget the power of analytics! Track your website traffic, social media engagement, and lead generation sources to understand what’s working and needs improvement. Continuously refine your digital strategy for maximum impact.

By investing in your digital curb appeal – you’re creating a welcoming online community that attracts the perfect residents for your property and convinces them to choose you over the competition.

Source: Rent.