Fall Doesn’t Mean a Fall in Applications: Why Renting Out Your Home in Autumn Has Its Advantages

Fall Doesn’t Mean a Fall in Applications: Why Renting Out Your Home in Autumn Has Its Advantages

As the weather starts to cool and leaves change color, it’s easy to assume that rental activity slows down. Historically, summer is the peak season for moving, with families eager to settle before school starts and young professionals jumping into new careers. But while it’s true that the rental market tends to be more active in warmer months, Fall doesn’t necessarily mean a fall in applications. In fact, autumn offers unique advantages for homeowners looking to rent out their properties.

A Smaller but More Serious Pool of Renters

During the summer, rental applications often surge, but that doesn’t always mean quality over quantity. Many people are casually browsing, or making quick decisions due to time constraints. By contrast, renters in the fall tend to be more serious about securing a home. Whether it’s due to job relocations, life changes, or personal timing, those moving in the fall are often more committed and prepared to move quickly.

• Quality Over Quantity: Fall renters typically have a greater sense of urgency and purpose, which often leads to better applicants.
• Long-Term Residents: This more selective pool may result in fewer applications, but a higher likelihood of securing long-term, responsible residents.

And with Belong’s enhanced resident screening, we always ensure the highest quality applicants!

Less Competition in the Market

Fall naturally brings fewer properties to the market, as many homeowners list their rentals during the busy summer season. However, this decrease in competition can work to your advantage. Renters looking for homes in the fall often have fewer options, meaning your property has a better chance of standing out. This increased visibility can lead to quicker rentals and less time sitting vacant, saving you money on unoccupied periods.

Flexibility for Renters Seeking Immediate Move-Ins

Because the market isn’t as saturated in the fall, there’s more room for flexibility in leasing terms. Renters moving in the fall may need to secure housing immediately due to work schedules or personal reasons, and they’re often ready to sign a lease quickly. This means you could find a resident faster and avoid the prolonged vacancy that sometimes comes with waiting for the “right” applicant in the busier months.

Families and Students on the Move

While many families aim to move during the summer, circumstances like job transfers or academic schedules may still prompt fall moves. Universities and colleges also play a role as students and faculty may need housing as they finalize last-minute plans for the new semester. If your property is located near a college or university, this could be an opportune time to attract these groups.

Negotiating Power

The fall market allows for more negotiating power on both sides. Homeowners can be more flexible with rental terms, pricing, or move-in dates, and residents may appreciate this flexibility. It’s a win-win situation that encourages future residents to act quickly. This approach not only increases your chance of leasing out the property sooner but also helps maintain a strong homeowner-resident relationship from the start.

The Cost of Waiting Until Spring

Delaying your rental listing until the spring might seem tempting, but it could cost you more in the long run. By waiting, you risk losing out on months of potential rental income. A vacant property still requires maintenance, security, and may even lead to depreciation over time.

• Lost Income: Each month your property sits empty is money out of your pocket. Rental income lost during fall and winter adds up quickly.
• Ongoing Expenses: Even without residents, you’ll still be responsible for utilities, upkeep, and possibly even taxes.

Conclusion: Autumn Brings Opportunity

While the fall season may see a slight dip in overall rental applications, it doesn’t signal a lull in the rental market’s potential. By capitalizing on the benefits of renting in the fall; serious renters, reduced competition, and the season’s charm, you can position your property for success. Fall doesn’t mean a fall in applications; rather, it can be a time to secure a reliable resident and reduce the stress of prolonged vacancy.

So don’t let your home sit vacant a day longer, and see why homeowners all across the U.S. are ditching outdated property management for Belong!

Disclaimer: We don’t enjoy using the word ‘landlord’. We prefer to refer to members in our network as homeowners and residents, not landlords and tenants, since we’re on a mission to upend and redefine the traditional landlord-tenant relationship. That said, this article is for homeowners taking the leap for the first time who are looking for answers with more common industry terms like ‘landlords’ and ‘tenants’, so in some instances we have had to stick to the old moniker for owners of rental homes.