Whether you're a first-time landlord or have been in the real estate industry for years, crafting a strong property listing will always be important. Your rental home’s advertisement serves as a renter’s first impression of your space and a glimpse into what it would look like to live there.
Before putting your home up for rent in Houston, consider some key factors. Houston's rental market mirrors the diversity of its neighborhoods, offering a wealth of opportunities for homeowners to generate income and contribute to the city's welcoming culture. Embarking on the journey of becoming a landlord in Houston requires thorough preparation and insight. Below, you'll find advice on listing your house for rent in Houston.
Listing Your House for Rent in Houston
Renting out your house in Houston has unique legal implications. As a landlord in Houston, you must abide by both state and local laws regarding security deposits, rent control, and more. Before you list your house for rent in Houston, make sure you’re up to date on the following regulations that influence the information in your property listing.
Does Houston have rent control?
Houston, like much of Texas, is not subject to rent control policies due to state law prohibiting local governments from enacting rent control measures unless there's a housing emergency and the governor has given their approval. This means that as a landlord in Houston, you have the flexibility to set rental prices at your own discretion. However, it's important for you to stay competitive within the market and to set rent prices that align with the value of your rental property and the current market conditions. If you list your house on Apartments.com, we provide you with free rent comparison reports. The valuable information in the rent comparison report gives you a clear understanding of the market so you can price your rental right, compare your property’s value to other similar properties, and review market conditions like the average days on the market and the average rent rates. Being knowledgeable about Houston's rental market trends can help landlords make informed decisions about pricing their rentals effectively.
Do you need a license to rent out your house in Houston?
In contrast to many other cities, Houston is one of the few major cities that does not require landlords to obtain a specific license for long-term rental properties. This simplifies the process for homeowners looking to rent out their houses on a more permanent basis. Additionally, Houston stands out as it also does not have short-term rental regulations, making it unique among large U.S. cities. While this offers a degree of flexibility for landlords interested in renting out their homes, either short-term or long-term, it is still imperative that, as a landlord, you ensure your rental practices comply with state and federal laws, including fair housing regulations.
Despite the lack of licensing requirements, maintaining high standards in property management and tenant relations remains crucial for a successful and lawful rental experience in Houston. For more information, contact the Houston Housing Authority or a local real estate attorney.
Is there a security deposit limit in Houston?
Unlike some cities that impose strict limits on the amount a landlord can charge for a security deposit, Houston adheres to state laws without setting a specific maximum limit. This means that as a landlord in Houston, you have the discretion to determine the cost of the security deposit based on an assessment of your rental house's value and potential risk factors. However, it's important for you to consider the market standard and to set a security deposit amount that is reasonable and justifiable. While there is no statutory cap, you must follow the Texas state law requirements for refunding security deposits to tenants within 30 days after they move out, provided the tenant has met all terms of the lease agreement.
If you decide you need to deduct from your tenant’s security deposit, under Texas state law, you can only deduct from your tenant's security deposit for unpaid rent or damage beyond normal wear and tear. If you do take money from your tenant’s security deposit, you must provide a detailed list of any deductions from the security deposit for repairs or damages, excluding normal wear and tear. Keeping in mind the state of Houston's rental market, setting a fair security deposit can attract more potential renters while still protecting your rental house. Comprehending and adhering to these regulations ensures that your policies not only safeguard your property but also comply with state laws.
Is your property in line with Houston housing codes?
Housing codes are requirements that all rental properties must meet in order to be fit for renters. Before listing your house for rent, make sure you are abiding by local housing codes. Common housing code violations in Houston include:
- Lack of essential services such as water, electricity, or heating
- Structural hazards, including weak floors, roofs, walls, staircases, or broken windows
- Pest infestations, especially involving rodents or insects
- Plumbing issues, including leaks, blockages, or lack of hot water
- Electrical wiring that is exposed or not up to code
- Poor ventilation, which could lead to mold growth or stale air conditions
- Insufficient security measures, such as broken locks on doors and windows
Ensuring your rental house meets all housing code standards is not only a legal requirement, but it also ensures the safety and comfort of your tenants. Failure to comply with housing codes can result in fines, penalties, or even legal action from your tenants. It's important to regularly inspect your rental property for any potential violations and address them promptly to maintain a positive rental experience for both you and your tenants.
Does your Houston listing abide by Fair Housing Laws?
Perhaps the number one most important factor when creating a property listing is avoiding legal disputes. Know that when you list your property for rent, there are certain things you can and cannot say in a listing. The Fair Housing Act, in place since 1968, protects against discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability. This law applies to all aspects of real estate transactions and so it affects your rental property listing. To ensure compliance with the Fair Housing Act, follow these tips when creating your listing:
- Do not mention race, gender, religion, national origin, disability or familial status
- Avoid describing the neighborhood or community with any discriminatory phrases
- Do not include images that target a specific demographic.
- Adhere to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) when describing amenities or features of your rental house.
If you have any questions about fair housing laws, consult with a local real estate attorney or the Greater Houston Fair Housing Center.
Marketing Your Rental Property in Houston, TX
After ensuring your property meets legal compliance and is up to code, it's time to attract potential tenants and effectively market your rental property. To make your listing stand out in the competitive Houston rental market, follow these strategic tips:
Enhance your rental house’s curb appeal
Boosting your rental property's curb appeal is a critical step in attracting potential renters in Houston's competitive market. Houston's diverse climate and sprawling urban landscape provide unique opportunities to make your rental stand out. Start with basic landscaping and make sure the lawn is neatly trimmed. Once the lawn is cut, consider adding native Texas plants that can withstand the Houston heat, such as Bluebonnets or Coneflowers. These native Texan plants not only add color but also add life to your property's exterior.
In addition to landscaping, focus on the property's façade. A fresh coat of paint can significantly rejuvenate the exterior appearance. Opt for colors that comply with any local HOA regulations and appeal broadly to the Houston market. Make sure the walkways and driveway are kept clean and in good condition. Consider using a power washer on the exterior surfaces of your rental property to eliminate any dirt and grime. Lastly, don’t forget the importance of the front door; it's the gateway to the home. A new door, or even just a new coat of paint on the existing door, can drastically improve the overall aesthetic of the property. These improvements do not have to be costly or time-consuming but can greatly enhance the attractiveness of your property.
Take professional photos of your rental house
Capturing high-quality photos of your rental property is essential in the Houston rental market. Clear, professional images can significantly increase the appeal of your listing and draw in potential renters. The good news for landlords is that you don't need a professional camera to take these photos - a smartphone with a good camera will suffice. Here are some tips to keep in mind when photographing your rental property with a smartphone:
- Take advantage of Texas’ natural light and schedule shoots during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon.
- To avoid harsh shadows and to bask your property in warm light, open all curtains or blinds to maximize daylight in every room.
- Keep your shots steady. Use a tripod or stabilize your phone against a solid surface to avoid blurry images.
- Highlight Houston’s characteristics and culture when choosing angles and details to highlight.
- Showcase any outdoor spaces, like patios or gardens, which are highly sought after in Houston’s mild climate.
- Pay attention to framing shots that highlight spacious, airy rooms which can be an appealing aspect in this city known for its diverse architectural styles.
- Take advantage of your phone’s HDR mode to balance the light and dark areas of your photos, ensuring details are visible even in lower light conditions.
- Edit your photos carefully. Use photo editing apps to adjust brightness, contrast, and saturation for a polished look.
Keep in mind that when taking professional photographs of your rental property in Houston, the objective is to portray the property accurately while emphasizing its most attractive features. By utilizing high-quality images, prospective tenants can imagine themselves living in the space, which boosts their interest and the chances of them seeking additional information or requesting a viewing.
Write a compelling property description
Writing a compelling property description is crucial to help your rental property stand out and catch the eye of potential tenants. A well-written description serves as the narrative of your property, inviting prospective renters to envision living in the space. Here are some tips to ensure your description stands out:
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Keep it concise: While details are important, your property description should be brief. Aim for a balance between providing essential information and maintaining a prospective tenant's interest.
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Highlight desirable features: Mention popular amenities and unique features of your property. Does your rental have a washer/dryer, a spacious yard, or updated kitchen appliances? These are all appealing to potential renters and should be prominently featured in your description.
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Include information about Houston: Given Houston's diverse and dynamic neighborhoods, highlighting local attractions can significantly boost your listing's appeal. Mention proximity to landmarks, parks, trendy dining spots, and cultural institutions. Also, if your property is located in an area with easy access to major highways or public transportation, be sure to include that information as it adds value for commuters.
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Short overview of appeal: Provide a brief overview of what makes your property desirable. This could be anything from a quiet, family-friendly neighborhood to nightlife and entertainment options nearby.
If you list with Apartments.com, your listing will gain an added layer of attractiveness. It automatically includes neighborhood overviews, nearby schools and universities, transportation information, and points of interest, making your property more appealing by providing potential tenants with a comprehensive view of what life could look like in their new home.
Include your contact information
Making your listing stand out by facilitating an easy way for prospective tenants to contact you is crucial, especially in Houston's competitive rental market. Ensure your listing includes clear contact information that allows Houston renters to quickly inquire about your property, schedule tours, or initiate the application process. Clearly stating your preferred method of communication, be it phone, email, or text, facilitates smooth and direct communication. Furthermore, when you list on Apartments.com, you gain the advantage of using our online portal. This portal allows renters to apply directly on your Apartments.com listing and enables you to effortlessly receive and manage inquiries online.
Engage with prospective renters
After listing your rental property in Houston, engaging effectively with potential tenants becomes crucial. It's essential to be vigilant and respond promptly to inquiries, whether through messages, texts, emails, or any other notifications from interested individuals. Organizing property tours, ensuring you're on time for these appointments, and conducting detailed and informative tours can greatly impact a potential tenant's decision-making process. The promptness and professionalism of your responses not only reflect the quality of your management in the Houston rental market but also play a critical role in establishing a positive initial relationship. Effective engagement with prospective tenants in Houston not only boosts your chances of finding a suitable tenant swiftly but also lays the groundwork for a respectful and smooth tenancy, setting a positive precedent for future interactions.
List Your House for Rent in Houston, TX for Free on Apartments.com
In the competitive rental market of Houston, it's crucial to ensure your rental home distinguishes itself from the rest to attract potential tenants. That's where Apartments.com comes in. By offering free listings on Apartments.com, you connect with a large pool of prospective renters actively seeking their next home. Our platform offers maximum visibility for your property, reaching the broadest audience possible.
Apartments.com provides landlords with innovative tools and features designed to streamline the rental process. Our tenant screening option offers a swift and efficient way to assess applicants once they've submitted their rental applications. Furthermore, our lease wizard facilitates the creation of customizable, state-specific, and legally compliant lease agreements. Our platform also features an online maintenance system, allowing tenants to easily report issues. This system provides you with the ability to monitor and update the status of repairs without hassle, making property management in Houston smoother than ever. Additionally, our expense tracking tool simplifies the organization of rental expenses by property and tax category.
By choosing Apartments.com, landlords gain access to a comprehensive rental management solution that combines efficiency with ease. Whether you are just stepping into the world of property management or have years of experience, Apartments.com is committed to supporting you throughout your property management journey.
The information presented in this article is not a substitute for legal advice. Always consult an attorney for questions regarding your specific situation.
