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Apartment No-Shows & Drive-Offs
"Help - I really need to get a unit in a duplex
rented, and it's just not moving even though I get plenty of calls."
Well, there are several possible scenarios for this. I assume the ad lists the
area, number of bedrooms, and the rent. Your ad is effective, because you get
lots of calls. So what is your biggest problem after you give the address
and further info?
1. People don't want to see it.
Usually this means that they don't like the area or are looking for something
that you lack. Maybe a garage, yard, pets allowed, washer/dryer hookups,
etc. Make sure your ad gives as much or more info than other ads.
2. People say they will drive by, but never call back.
I always encourage people to drive by and call back if they like it. Saves me a lot
of time. They may have a list of several properties and just stop
looking when they find one they like. Or there may be something
unappealing to them about the property or the neighborhood.
3. People make appointments, but
don't show up.
As said, I always ask them to drive by first, unless they are familiar with the
street. If they have not seen it, they may not be serious enough to show
up. Or some may show up but never actually get out of the car, because
they find it unattractive and just keep on driving. It's amazing how rude
and flakey most people are.. It is very rare for a no-show to call to cancel or
reschedule. I find it beneficial to have a picture of the property on the
web, so they can see it in advance. Have a friend visit the property and tell you what needs improving.
Curb appeal is half the battle.Also, it's helpful to schedule
several appointments at once. I'll try to schedule 3 or 4 for the
same time and hope that 2 or 3 show up. I tell everyone to meet me
Wednesday at 6:00. If they say they can't make it, I tell them to call me
Thursday for the next showing. If it's not rented,, I'll set the next
group up for Saturday at 2:00 If I'm making a special trip for one single
prospect, I'll tell them to call me and reconfirm 30 minutes before the agreed
time.
4. People show up, but don't fill out the application.
Some are just window shopping. But most of the time, there is something
inside that they don't like. Again, ask a friend "if you lived here, what
would be the first thing you'd change?"
5. People fill out the application, but have terrible
credit or references.
Beware of those who are over enthusiastic. They may be playing you because
they've been rejected several times or are being kicked out of there current
apartment. And don't let appearances fool you. I've seen college
professors with terrible credit and garbage men with spotless records.
Clothes and careers don't reflect personal integrity or responsibility.
Plus, raising the rent a little will sometimes weed out a few of the deadbeats.
Certain price ranges seem to attract them. Copyright
The Lazy Mentor |
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