Fall is a busy time for rental managers, especially when your rentals are near universities. With students heading back to school, it's an ideal opportunity to offer specials to attract new occupants. Student renters offer a reliable rental cycle aligned with the academic calendar, a consistent demand for housing, and the potential for longer leases if they remain in the area for multiple years. They are a great option for filling your vacancies. Here are some back-to-school marketing ideas you can capitalize on to draw in student renters and maximize occupancy during this bustling season.

  1. Partner With Local Schools: Collaborate with nearby colleges and universities to advertise your student-friendly vacancies on their housing boards, websites, and during student orientation events.
  2. Create Move-In Specials For Students: Offer discounted rates, waived application fees, or reduced security deposits for students of local universities and schools.
  3. Refer-A-Friend Program: Encourage your current residents to refer friends or classmates by offering incentives such as rent credits, gift cards, or other perks.
  4. Design Furnished Apartments For Students: Highlight furnished apartment options that cater to students who may not have their own furniture or students from other states or countries.
  5. Have Student-Friendly Lease Terms: Offer short-term or flexible lease options, such as six-month or nine-month leases, that accommodate the school calendar.
  6. Provide A Roommate Matching Service: Help students find compatible roommates with a matching service to help you fill more vacancies.
  7. Highlight Your Study Spaces And Amenities: Promote study rooms, high-speed internet, and other amenities that cater to students' needs.
  8. Run A Social Media Campaign: Run targeted ads on youth-focused social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok using appealing visuals and student-specific messages.
  9. Highlight Your Proximity To The Campus: Emphasize how close the apartments are to local schools, universities, public transportation, and popular student hangouts. Also, highlight shuttle services to nearby campuses or popular student destinations.
  10. Collaborate with Local Businesses: Partner with local coffee shops, bookstores, and eateries to offer discounts to your residents, enhancing your offering.
  11. Host Back-To-School Events: Host welcome events like BBQs, pool parties, or meet-and-greets for new and returning students to build community and showcase the amenities.
  12. Have Virtual Tours And Online Applications: Provide virtual tours and an easy online application process to cater to students and parents who are out of state or overseas.

You can also implement back-to-school retention strategies for your existing renters, such as offering gift bags with school supplies and coupons for local businesses. With these marketing strategies, you’ll be able to attract student renters and increase your occupancy rates. For more occupancy marketing strategies, contact Occupancy Solutions. We help rental managers find new ways to fill their vacancies.