Vacancies cost money. Every day your rental sits empty in Georgetown, TX, you’re missing out on potential income. Whether you’re a new landlord or an experienced investor, your goal is the same: to fill units quickly with quality tenants. Here’s a step-by-step approach that can help you reduce vacancy time and boost your bottom line.

1. Pepare the Property Like a Pro

Before listing, your unit should be move-in ready. This means a deep clean, fresh paint, and all maintenance issues addressed. Curb appeal matters more than you think—Georgetown renters notice things like trimmed lawns, clean walkways, and working lights. Inside, make sure appliances are working, windows are clean, and the space smells fresh. A well-prepared property creates a great first impression and sets the tone for a smooth lease-up.

2. Price It Right the First Time

In Georgetown’s growing rental market, pricing too high can lead to long vacancies, while pricing too low can reduce your ROI. Start by researching similar listings in your neighborhood—look at square footage, amenities, and condition. Consider adjusting slightly below market value if you’re in a competitive area and want to rent faster. A well-priced unit attracts more inquiries, which gives you the chance to choose the best tenant—not just the first one who applies.

3. Take Professional Photos

This isn’t optional anymore. Most prospective renters will see your listing online before they ever set foot on the property. Grainy, poorly lit photos will cause them to scroll right past your listing. Invest in a professional photographer—or, at the very least, use a high-resolution camera and take well-staged photos during daylight hours. Highlight the best features of the home: natural light, updated kitchens, spacious layouts, or outdoor space.

4. Write a Compelling Listing Description

Your listing is your pitch. Beyond the specs, tell renters why they’ll love living in this unit. Mention unique features like smart home upgrades, walk-in closets, or pet-friendly policies. Highlight neighborhood perks too—Georgetown is known for its small-town charm, great schools, and proximity to Austin. Use clear, concise language and include a strong call to action like “Schedule your showing today—this one won’t last!”

5. Maximize Listing Exposure

Don’t just post to one platform and wait. Use a multi-channel approach:

• Zillow, Apartments.com, and Realtor.com for broad reach.
• Facebook Marketplace and local groups for targeting local renters.
• MLS, if you’re working with a licensed agent.
• Your website, if you’re managing your own portfolio or working with a company like Rely Property Management, which uses strategic digital marketing to maximize visibility.

The goal is simple: get in front of as many qualified eyes as possible.

6. Respond Quickly to Inquiries

Speed matters. Renters in Georgetown often browse multiple listings and book multiple showings. If someone reaches out and doesn’t hear back within a few hours, they’ll likely move on. Set up automated responses or have a dedicated team member field inquiries. Schedule showings promptly, and consider offering flexible times—especially evenings and weekends.

7. Use Self-Guided Showings (Smart Lockboxes)

Technology can speed up the leasing process dramatically. Offering self-guided tours through secure smart lockboxes lets prospective tenants view the home on their schedule. Not only does this increase showings, but it also screens out less serious prospects. Georgetown renters love the convenience, and landlords get faster results.

8. Screen Tenants Thoroughly—but Efficiently

Filling units fast doesn’t mean rushing the screening process. Use online applications that include background checks, credit reports, income verification, and rental history. Automated platforms can return results quickly so you can make informed decisions within 24–48 hours. Companies like Rely Property Management prioritize fast, compliant tenant screening to ensure landlords get the best of both speed and quality.

9. Streamline the Lease Signing Process

Gone are the days of printing and scanning lease agreements. Use e-signature platforms like DocuSign to send and sign leases digitally. Make the process seamless and mobile-friendly. Georgetown’s tenant base includes young professionals and families who appreciate convenience and clarity when signing a lease.

10. Collect Move-In Funds Digitally

Once the lease is signed, don’t delay. Collect the security deposit and first month’s rent electronically. Platforms like AppFolio, Buildium, or RentRedi make this simple. Having funds in hand before the tenant receives keys prevents any last-minute no-shows and gets you paid faster.

11. Create a Great Move-In Experience

Your relationship with a tenant starts at move-in. Provide a clean home, a welcome packet with essential information, and a clear line of communication for maintenance requests. A smooth transition sets the tone for the entire tenancy—and reduces early move-outs. Happy tenants are more likely to renew, which means fewer vacancies in the future.

12. Work With a Local Property Management Company

Managing listings, showings, applications, and move-ins takes time. If you’re out of town, have a full-time job, or simply want to reduce stress, hiring a property management company can be a smart move. Rely Property Management specializes in fast lease-ups in Georgetown, TX. From marketing to tenant placement, their team handles the entire process with local expertise and digital efficiency.

13. Keep a List of Pre-Qualified Leads

Once your unit is filled, don’t toss out all the other applicants. Keep a running list of pre-qualified renters who were interested but didn’t make the cut due to timing or availability. When another vacancy opens, you can reach out to this warm lead pool and potentially lease the unit before you even list it. Rely Property Management uses this proactive method to reduce downtime between tenants.

14. Monitor Market Shifts

Georgetown is evolving, and so is its rental market. Keep tabs on local trends like rising rent rates, popular amenities, and new development projects. Adjust your listings and rental strategies accordingly. Staying ahead of the curve gives you a competitive edge—and helps you rent faster.

15. Build a Reputation That Attracts Tenants

Long-term success in Georgetown’s rental market is tied to reputation. Online reviews, referrals, and word-of-mouth are powerful tools. Make it a goal to offer excellent communication, fair pricing, and fast maintenance response times. Happy tenants become your best marketers.

Ready to Fill Your Georgetown Rental Faster Than Ever?

At Rely Property Management, we specialize in reducing vacancy times and placing high-quality tenants quickly. Whether you’re a hands-off investor or a local landlord needing support, our team brings the local expertise and tools you need to maximize rental income.

Let’s turn that vacant unit into passive income. Contact us today to get started.