🎯 How to Attract Top-Tier Tenants with Marketing That Works

Finding a tenant is easy. Finding great tenants—those who pay on time, treat your property with respect, and stick around long-term—is where the real challenge lies. Whether you own a single rental unit or manage a growing real estate portfolio, one thing remains true: your marketing strategy plays a major role in the quality of tenant you attract.

In this article, I’ll break down exactly how to craft a rental listing and marketing approach that consistently draws in high-quality tenants—without the hassle or long vacancies. Ready to attract responsible renters who make your life easier? Let’s dive in.

💡 Why Marketing Matters for Tenant Quality

1. Great Tenants Don’t Just “Show Up”—You Attract Them

The best tenants are choosy. They’re looking for a clean, well-maintained space presented by a landlord or property manager who takes things seriously. If your listing is sloppy, dark, or vague, it sends a message that your property (and your communication) may be just as lacking.

📍 Real Example: A landlord in Saskatoon revamped their photos and description and saw double the inquiries from qualified renters within 48 hours.

2. The High Cost of Bad Tenants

If you've ever dealt with:

• Late payments

• Noise complaints

• Property damage

• Evictions or short-term leases

...you already know that one wrong tenant can cost you thousands.

🎯 Pro Tip: A strong marketing strategy naturally filters out problem tenants. You’ll attract applicants who are organized, financially prepared, and respectful of your process.

📸 Marketing Strategies That Attract High-Quality Tenants

1. Use High-Quality Photos & Video Tours

Listings with professional photos receive 60% more inquiries. That means brighter, clearer images of your unit can drastically increase visibility and response.

• Showcase the natural light.

• Highlight updated finishes and clean spaces.

• Don’t forget the exterior, common areas, and storage.

🎥 Bonus: Create a short video tour to help remote applicants or those who prefer a digital walkthrough first.

2. Craft a Compelling, Detail-Rich Listing

Generic listings don’t stand out. Use emotionally engaging and informative language to spark interest.

✅ Include:

• Features (e.g., in-suite laundry, pet-friendly, central air)

• Location perks (transit routes, school zones, parks)

• Lifestyle benefits (quiet neighborhood, rooftop patio, home office potential)

💡 Instead of: “2-bedroom apartment available.”
Write: “Bright 2-bedroom upper suite with vaulted ceilings and modern finishes—steps from Saskatoon’s best coffee shops and parks.”

3. Advertise Across Multiple Platforms

Don’t rely on one site. The more places you post, the bigger your tenant pool.

📢 Best rental listing platforms in Canada:

• Facebook Marketplace

• Rentals.ca

• Kijiji

• Zumper

• Craigslist

• Local Facebook buy/sell & rental groups

🕰️ Pro Tip: Post during peak viewing hours (after 6 PM or weekends) when more tenants are browsing.

4. Pre-Screen Tenants Like a Pro

You don’t want to waste time chasing unqualified leads. Add filters to your process:

✅ Ask for:

• Proof of income

• Employer verification

• Landlord references

• Credit check authorization

💡 Example: One Saskatoon landlord added a Google Form pre-screening link to their ad and reduced unqualified showings by 80%.

5. Promote Features That Attract Responsible Tenants

Top-tier renters are often looking for:

• Stability (long-term leases, responsive landlords)

• Savings (energy-efficient appliances, included utilities)

• Convenience (snow removal, garbage pickup, lawn care)

Don’t underestimate the power of perks like “garage parking included” or “pet-friendly with fenced yard.”

📣 Make Your Listing Stand Out

1. Respond to Inquiries Quickly

High-quality renters are efficient. If you’re slow to respond, they’ll move on.

✅ Set up auto-responders or text alerts so you can reply within a few hours at most.

2. Showcase Positive Reviews or Testimonials

If past tenants loved your property or your management style, ask them for a short testimonial and include it in your listing or replies.

“We had such a great experience—Jack was responsive, helpful, and the suite was well-maintained!” – Previous tenant, Saskatoon

3. Host an Open House or Virtual Tour

Not every applicant can view in person. Offer:

• Virtual showings via FaceTime or Zoom

• Open houses on Saturdays to allow multiple walk-ins

🎯 Hosting an open house adds legitimacy and creates urgency—especially when combined with a “Now Accepting Applications” message.

🔁 Attract Great Tenants, Avoid Headaches

By investing a bit more into your marketing strategy, you’ll spend less time screening, avoid frustrating turnover, and gain peace of mind knowing your investment is in good hands.

💼 Final Thoughts

Marketing your rental isn’t just about getting it rented fast—it’s about attracting the right person. Someone who respects the space, pays on time, and stays for the long haul.

If you’re managing a property in Saskatoon and want a custom tenant marketing plan, or just need help filling your vacancy with a top-tier tenant, I’ve got your back.

📞 Let’s Connect Jack Bouvier – Bouvier Real Estate Group
📱 Call/Text: (306) 370-6179
📧 Email: jackbouvier33@gmail.com

Let’s find the tenant your property deserves.