How to Market Your Rental Property on Craigslist and Zillow

By PropsManager Team | Dec 17, 2025

How to Market Your Rental Property on Craigslist and Zillow

Vacancies are expensive. To fill your unit quickly, you need to be where the tenants are: Zillow (and its network) and Craigslist.

1. Great Photos are Non-Negotiable

• Take photos during the day with natural light.
• Use a wide-angle lens (or phone setting) to show the whole room.
• Include a floor plan if possible.
• Tip: Clean and stage the room before snapping pics!

2. Writing a Killer Headline

• Bad: "2 Bed Apt for Rent"
• Good: "Sunny 2BR/2BA with Balcony & In-Unit Laundry - Downtown"
• Highlight the best features immediately.

3. The Description

• Start with the "Hook": Location, key amenities, or special offers.
• List the basics clearly: Rent, Deposit, Bedrooms, Bathrooms, Sq Ft.
• Mention pet policy and parking.
• Call to Action: Tell them exactly how to apply or schedule a viewing.

4. Zillow Rental Manager

Zillow feeds to Trulia and HotPads. It's the biggest network. Ensure your listing is verified to build trust.

5. Craigslist Safety

Craigslist is still popular but prone to scams.

• Watermark your photos.
• Do not put the exact address in the listing text (use the map feature).
• Watch out for scammers asking to send checks without seeing the place.

Conclusion

Marketing is about presentation. A professional listing attracts professional tenants.