Millennials and Gen Z are the main renters today. Millennials make up more than half of today’s renters (56% of the rental market, to be exact), and Gen Z is right behind them, bringing in 44.4 million more. If you want to fill your Bothell rental property fast, you’ll need to market it in a way that speaks to these digital-savvy, convenience-loving, community-driven renters.
Good news? You don’t need a crystal ball or a viral TikTok dance to do it. You just need the right approach. And if you’re working with a property manager, they should be right there with you, making sure your marketing hits the mark.
Here’s what you need to know to get your rental in front of Millennials and Gen Z in a way that actually works:
Pictures or It Didn’t Happen
Millennials and Gen Z won’t waste time on listings with blurry photos or wordy descriptions. They scroll fast, decide fast, and expect visuals to do the talking. That means high-quality photos, 3D tours, and quick, engaging video walkthroughs. Show off the space, highlight the best features, and make it easy for renters to imagine themselves living there.
Walk the Walk (Not Just Talk the Talk)
Younger renters don’t just care about where they live, they care about how they live. They want landlords and property managers who align with their values. That means sustainable features, community engagement, and a sense of purpose beyond collecting rent checks.
Got energy-efficient appliances? Say so. Offer composting and recycling options? Highlight them. Support local businesses? Make it known. If your rental is pet-friendly or has smart home features, that’s another big win. These details can turn a maybe into a yes.
Sell a Lifestyle, Not Just a Lease
Millennials and Gen Z aren’t looking for just four walls and a roof, they want an experience. The neighborhood, the amenities, and the sense of community matter just as much as the square footage.
Bothell’s got plenty to offer, from scenic trails to breweries to co-working spaces. Make sure your listing highlights what’s nearby. Got a rooftop deck? A dog park? A fitness center? Shout it from the digital rooftops.
If you’re working with a property manager, they should be helping you position your rental as more than just a unit. It’s a lifestyle choice, and that’s what sells.
Tech is King (or Queen)
These renters grew up with smartphones in their hands. They expect digital convenience at every step. That means online applications, easy rent payments, and instant communication. If your rental process still involves paper forms and fax machines, you’re losing prospects before they even tour.
Fast WiFi? Non-negotiable. Smart locks? Huge perk. Seamless communication via text or messaging apps? A must. If you want to make things even easier, a good property manager can handle all the digital logistics, making sure tenants can interact with the property effortlessly.
Social Proof = Social Proof
Word of mouth looks different now. Instead of asking friends for recommendations, younger renters check Google reviews, scroll through Instagram, and read Reddit threads. If your rental has good online reviews, that’s a major selling point. If you don’t have many yet, start asking happy tenants to leave feedback.
Bonus tip: Create an Instagram-worthy experience at your property. That could mean a well-decorated lobby, a cool mural, or even a cozy outdoor seating area. The more “shareable” your property looks, the better.
Some Final Words
At the end of the day, marketing to Millennials and Gen Z isn’t about gimmicks. It’s about meeting them where they are, offering what they actually want, and making the renting process as smooth as possible.
A solid property manager can help with all of this, ensuring your rental stays competitive in a market where attention spans are short and expectations are high. So, if you’re not sure where to start, that might be your first step: finding a pro who can take your property from listed to leased in no time.
At PMI Equitas we have a professional approach led by expert, experienced property managers who understand these demographic groups and can offer you valuable guidance in offering your rental properties to this market.
Don’t wait, contact us today if you need further assistance.
