October is often an overlooked time to list rental properties, but if you’re a landlord or realtor in the Bay Area, this month offers some unique advantages. Many property owners focus on spring and summer as the best times to market rentals, but October can be just as fruitful, if not more, especially when you’re trying to fill vacancies and keep your rental income steady.
In this blog, we’ll explore why October is a golden opportunity for marketing rental properties in the Bay Area, and how you can take advantage of this often-overlooked time of year.
1. End-of-Year Moving Surge: Secure Tenants Before the Holidays
One of the biggest reasons to market your rental in October is the end-of-year moving surge. Many renters want to secure housing before the holiday season kicks in. Nobody wants to be packing up their life during Thanksgiving or Christmas! By getting your property on the market now, you’re catching those renters who want to settle in before the end-of-year chaos.
Another factor is lease renewals. A lot of leases in the Bay Area tend to start in January or October. This means that people who need to move are actively looking for new homes, giving you a motivated pool of tenants.
By marketing in October, you’re reaching renters ready to move before the holidays, often leading to quicker showings and lease signings.
2. Less Competition: Stand Out in a Slower Market
Most landlords list their properties during spring and summer. By the time October rolls around, a lot of that competition has dried up. That’s great news for you because it means less noise in the market and a higher chance that your listing will be seen by potential tenants.
With fewer new listings hitting the market, your rental property can get top visibility on popular listing platforms. This increases the chances of getting quality leads quickly.
Plus, renters looking in October are serious about moving. They’re not casually browsing like they might in peak seasons, they need a place, and they need it soon. Marketing your Bay Area rental property in October ensures you’re connecting with motivated tenants.
3. Seasonal Staging: Appeal to Renters with Fall Vibes
Fall is one of the coziest times of the year, and you can use that to your advantage when marketing your rental property. Staging your property with warm, autumnal décor—think pumpkins, cozy blankets, and fall colors, can make your space more inviting. This not only helps your listing stand out but also makes it easier for potential renters to imagine themselves living there.
Another great tip? Consider holding open houses with seasonal touches. Offering cider, hot chocolate, or even small fall-themed snacks can make the experience memorable for potential renters. It’s a small touch that goes a long way in helping your property stand out from the competition.
Make your property rental cozier this fall. Read more about it here.
4. Great Weather for Moving: Make It Easy On Tenants
The Weather in the Bay Area is pretty mild in October. This makes it a great time for tenants to move, especially compared to the hot summer or rainy winter months. Renters appreciate moving when the weather is more comfortable, which means October is a sweet spot.
Not only does the moderate weather encourage potential renters to come out for showings, but it also makes moving day much easier for them. This can be a selling point when marketing your property, as renters often prefer to move when the weather won’t be a hassle.
5. Avoid Winter Vacancies: Fill Your Property Before the Slow Season
Nobody wants a vacant rental in November or December. These months are notoriously slow for finding new tenants, and it can lead to longer vacancies. Marketing your Bay Area rental property in October is a smart way to avoid this situation.
By securing a tenant in October, you’re ensuring a steady stream of rental income heading into the end of the year. This is especially important if you have financial commitments or additional holiday expenses. Plus, many renters who move in October are looking for long-term stability, meaning they’re more likely to sign a 12-month lease or longer, giving you peace of mind through the slower months.
6. Use Virtual Tours to Attract Renters: Stand Out with Walkintour Technology
In a competitive market like the Bay Area, it’s important to use every tool at your disposal to market your property effectively. One way to do that is by leveraging 3D virtual tours through services like Walkintour. Virtual tours make it easier for potential tenants to explore your property from the comfort of their home, especially those relocating to the Bay Area or those with busy schedules.
By offering a virtual tour, you’re providing an immersive experience that makes your property more accessible to a broader range of renters. Plus, virtual tours can help screen out renters who might not be a good fit, making the leasing process more efficient for you.
7. October Lease Start Dates Offer Flexibility
A great reason to market your property in October is that it aligns with tenants who may be seeking flexibility. Renters who sign leases in October are often less likely to move out during peak moving season, which can reduce your turnover and vacancy rates.
Additionally, starting leases in October gives landlords more flexibility in the future. You won’t be tied to the summer rental cycle, where tenants have more options, and it’s easier to adjust rents when lease terms end during the less competitive seasons.
Take Advantage of October for Your Bay Area Rental Property
October might not be the most obvious time to market a rental property, but it offers a unique set of advantages that can help you secure quality tenants and avoid vacancies in the slower winter months. By capitalizing on the end-of-year moving surge, taking advantage of less competition, and using tools like Walkintour’s virtual tours, you can make October your most successful leasing month yet.
If you’re looking for expert guidance on leasing and property management in the Bay Area, check out The Cal Agents, a trusted partner in real estate and property management.