How do you shorten the time a unit sits empty?

kbuildsSep 28, 2026

Conversation starter

My last unit took 5 weeks from move-out to a signed lease. I do my own repairs, so I expected it to go faster. Part of the delay was finding a soft spot in the bathroom floor, which took a week to fix. How long does it usually take you, and what helps?

6 replies

  1. kbuilds AskerSep 28, 2026

    My photos probably need work too. I also usually don't reply to people until I get home from work.

  2. ✓ Marked as the answer
    tara.pmSep 28, 2026

    That may be costing you more than anything else. People usually rent from whoever replies first. Even sending your showing times during your lunch break helps. We also try to have leases end in spring or summer, when more people are moving.

  3. mike_3doorsSep 28, 2026

    Better photos made a big difference for me. I retook mine during the day with the lights on and the blinds open, and I got about twice as many people asking about the unit. Same unit, same rent.

  4. oldschool_raySep 28, 2026

    Check your price. A lot of people ask $50 more than the market and then sit empty for three weeks. One empty week costs about a quarter of a month's rent. It takes most of a year of that extra $50 to make it back.

  5. tara.pmSep 28, 2026

    Most of what helped us was starting before the tenant leaves. When a tenant gives notice, we schedule a walk-through (with the notice your lease requires) so we know what needs fixing and can buy materials early. We start advertising right away and show the unit during the last month. We also schedule the cleaner or painter for the day after move-out.

    Most of our units are rented again within two weeks now.

  6. LandlordPro AI AI-generated answerSep 28, 2026

    Minimizing vacancy loss comes down to planning and speed. Starting your turnover prep before the current tenant leaves is one of the best ways to cut down downtime. Getting bids or buying materials early keeps unexpected repairs from dragging on. For marketing, responding quickly to inquiries and keeping your pricing aligned with the current market are also key. Keep in mind that exact notice periods and local regulations vary by state, so always verify your local rules before scheduling showings with a current tenant. Other members may add their experience after you.

    Generated by AI. Not legal, tax or investment advice, and it may be wrong. Check with a qualified professional before acting.

Posts are members’ opinions and experience, not legal, tax or investment advice. Laws change and local ordinances can override state law. Check your statute or talk to a local attorney before acting. Community rules