Rentals in Salt Lake are getting squeezed from both ends. According to City Creek Mortgage, mortgage rates are climbing— 6.625% for a 30-year in April 2025—and renters aren’t exactly lining up to pay more. You’re not alone if you’re asking, How do I cover rising costs without scaring off good tenants?
Here’s the good news: people are still moving, still renting, still looking for places that feel like home. And they’re willing to pay if the property is worth it. The goal isn’t to drop your standards or slash rent. It’s to make your property one of the few that stand out in a tough rental market.
With the right strategy, you can attract quality tenants who pay on time, stay longer, and treat the place like it’s their own.
Below are practical and tough market tips to attract tenants you want for your property without sinking more money into a market that’s already tight.
1. Give Tenants What They Actually Want
Before you do anything, think like a renter. The good ones—on-time payers, rule followers, long-term stayers—want a few basics done right.
- Good location. Near work, schools, public transportation, or at least a grocery store.
- Decent upgrades. You don’t need granite countertops, but newer appliances, working air conditioning, and a fast internet connection go a long way.
- Safety. Deadbolts. Lights outside. Security systems.
- Flexible terms. Pet-friendly helps. So does offering a lease that’s not locked in for two years.
All these elements, when mixed together, promote a positive landlord-tenant relationship and tenant satisfaction.
2. Property Maintenance, Your First Step to Attracting Quality Tenants
Maintaining your rental property is key to attracting and retaining quality tenants. A well-kept property not only boosts its appeal but also shows prospective renters that you’re a responsible landlord.
People can tell when a place is cared for. They can also tell when it’s not.
- Fix stuff right away. Leaky sink? Creaky door? Handle it.
- Do seasonal checks. Heating before winter, cooling before summer.
- Keep the outside sharp—have a clean yard, swept steps, and no junk around.
This isn’t just for show. A clean, working unit sends a message: I respect my property, and I’ll respect my tenants. The right tenants will return the favor.
3. Make a Solid First Impression
The first impression a tenant has of your property can make or break their decision to rent. A strong initial impact sets the tone for a positive landlord-tenant relationship and can increase your chances of securing long-term tenants.
Rental property's curb appeal matters because it’s the first thing people see, both online and in person.
- Power wash the exterior
- Throw down some mulch or a couple of flowers
- Swap out old house numbers or mailbox numbers
Then, inside, stage it like you mean it with good lighting, a tidy layout, and high-quality photos. According to Panorama Home Photography, listings made by a professional photographer receive 118% more views, increasing the likelihood of being rented out.
4. Digital Marketing and Online Visibility
In today’s competitive market, a strong online presence is crucial for attracting potential tenants. Effective marketing ensures that your property reaches a broader audience and stands out in an increasingly digital world.
You don’t need to be a marketing expert. Hiring a professional real estate photographer can help, but you also need to post where renters are searching.
- Zillow, Apartments.com, Facebook Marketplace.
- Include a detailed description of square footage, market updates, modern amenities, and what makes your place better than the one next door.
- Create virtual tours and showcase the neighborhood—coffee shops, shopping centers, parks, and quiet streets.
Pro Tip: Record a simple walk-through video. It doesn’t need to be fancy. Just give people a feel for the place, and you can use it in your social media marketing.
5. Offer Flexible Lease Terms
Offering flexible lease terms can make your property more appealing to a broader range of potential renters, as it promotes a positive tenant experience. This approach helps cater to different needs and lifestyles, improving tenant satisfaction and tenant retention.
Think about offering:
- Month-to-month or short-term options
- A break clause for things like job relocations
- Reasonable pet policies (not just “no pets allowed” across the board)
You don’t have to say yes to everything, just show you're not stuck in the past.
6. Use Competitive Pricing and Market Data
Raising rent just because your mortgage went up? That’s risky. Renters shop around. If they can get more value next door, they will.
- Look at similar listings in your area
- Offer a move-in deal if your rent is above average
- Include extras if you can—Wi-Fi, utilities, off-street parking
In April 2025, the average one-bedroom rent in Salt Lake City, according to Apartments.com, is $ 1,453. That’s a 2.1% lower from 2024, while mortgage costs climbed way higher. So you need to price with purpose.
Cut Down Vacancy Time with Smarter, Targeted Marketing
Attracting quality tenants in a high-interest climate isn’t impossible—but it takes strategy, consistency, and local know-how. If you're feeling stretched between listings, repairs, and lease paperwork, you're not alone. That’s where a good property management company makes all the difference. When you bring in pros who know your competitive rental market, you don’t just lighten your workload—you level up your rental game.
At Wolfnest, we help property owners in Salt Lake City keep their properties full and their stress levels low by providing the support of a professional property manager. Whether you’re new to managing multiple rental properties or you’re scaling up your portfolio, we’ve got the tools and local expertise to back you up. Here’s how we help you attract high-quality tenants even in a challenging rental market:
- Tenant screening that weeds out the risky ones
- Prompt repair coordination with trusted vendors
- Lease agreements, renewals, and legal notices handled for you
- Property marketing strategies that boost the online visibility of rentals
- Rent collection and accounting made simple
Fewer vacancies mean more rental income and less hassle for you. Ready to stop spinning your wheels and start finding reliable tenants who actually stick around? Give our Salt Lake property manager team a call and let’s find ways to make your rental property stand out even in a tough market.
FAQs
How can I leverage local market trends to attract quality tenants during periods of high mortgage rates?
Staying informed about local economic indicators, such as employment rates and housing supply, can help you anticipate market shifts and adjust your property marketing tips and strategies accordingly. By aligning your property's offerings with current demand, you can make it more appealing to prospective tenants.
Are there alternative security deposit options that can attract more tenants?
Yes, offering flexible deposit alternatives, such as deposit insurance or monthly installment plans, can lower the financial barrier for tenants. These options make your property more accessible to a broader range of renters, potentially increasing your tenant pool.
How can I make my rental property more appealing to environmentally conscious tenants?
To attract eco-conscious tenants in a tough market, consider implementing sustainable features such as energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and low-flow water fixtures. Highlighting these upgrades in your rental listing can appeal to quality renters who prioritize environmental responsibility and may also lead to lower utility costs.
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