A landlord should know the target market for his properties. Some own single-family homes that are usually attractive for tenants with children or are planning to have children. While, on the other hand, the market for the multi-unit buildings, are likely those who are living alone and working because they don’t need the extra space that comes with renting a whole house.
You might be thinking of obtaining a property in a location with a military installment and is thinking about marketing to military families.
Renting your property to military personnel has its perks and risks. Military personnel are usually good tenants because you know they are disciplined. The downside is that they can leave anytime depending on their deployment, leaving you with a vacancy you need to fill.
If you did decide to advertise your property to military families, how should you do it?
• Location, location, location
I have said over and over again that the location of your property plays a big factor when clients are looking for housing accommodations. It won’t be any different for military personnel.
Like other house hunters, they would want somewhere near their military base so it will be easy for them to get to work. Look for properties near that area. If it is a bit far, make sure that there are several options for transportation.
• Know your target market
Knowing your target means knowing what they want and what to offer them. You should know the things that will attract them and will be beneficial to them.
Aside from the location and the transportation services available, other things can attract them. Military families prefer a house with multiple rooms, particularly if they have children. They also like organized and neat houses.
• Have it always ready
Normally, the tenants that are going to move in, have their preferences when it comes to the decoration, furniture, and appliances. They can do it gradually if they want. However, military families do not have the same advantage.
They are often deployed and will be given a short time to pack up their things and prepare for their move. This is why they prefer properties that are fully furnished and ready to be occupied. If you plan on them as your target market, have your property move-in ready.
• Be mindful of the BAH
Each military personnel have their BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing). It differs depending on where they are deployed. With this in mind, you should come up with a rental fee that they can afford based on their BAH. You should also include the fees and payment for extra services.
• Target young families
Military personnel usually start at a young age when it comes to starting families and you would expect a lot of young families when you rent out to them.
It is good if your property is child-friendly since they will have young children with them. Highlight the areas where kids can play, like a spacious front yard or an extra area inside the house for a playroom.
• Advertise
There are a lot of ways to advertise your property. Nowadays, landlords take advantage of the technology and the internet. And you should too.
Create your listing at Padleads and include pictures of your property. Make sure to post the good pictures to catch their eye. After that, you can just syndicate it to other websites easily.
• Make your lease terms flexible
You should be prepared for their deployment anytime although not all of them will not finish their lease. There is also a chance that they can stay for a few years. But still, make your terms flexible for them.
You don’t have to accommodate all of their needs, but you can with some of it. For example, you can offer a month to month lease term.
I hope these tips will help you in attracting your market of military families. If you can study more about renting out to them, then go right ahead. You’ll be an expert on this in no time.