Attract the right tenants. Keep the best ones. That is the core of great property management in Ontario. Use this guide to evaluate a manager’s process, results, and accountability so you know you’re getting real value.
Tenant marketing and retention: what to ask
Start with scope, timelines, and proof. Ask how they market, how fast they lease, and how they retain tenants. Confirm how results will be reported. For context on our approach, review our Ontario property management services and our transparent pricing for landlords.
Tenant marketing and retention: advertising that works
Where do they advertise rental listings? Broad exposure helps only if channels convert. Expect coverage across major paid and free sites plus offline touchpoints like signs, MLS, and a concise info line.
Do their ads stand out? Any firm can post basics. You want ads that inform and persuade. Great ads answer common questions and use strong copy that earns clicks and showings.
See how we tailor local campaigns for Belleville rentals, Quinte West, and Trenton.
Tenant marketing and retention: speed, vacancy, and ROI
What is their current vacancy rate? It is a leading indicator. If they struggle to fill and keep units, expect delays.
How long to fill vacancies on average? If the average exceeds a month, probe why and how they improve the timeline.
Do they know cost per lead? A precise answer shows they track ROI and optimize spend. For weekly market context, browse our latest Ontario rental market insights.
Tenant marketing and retention: lead handling and follow-up
Who fields inbound leads? The system is only as strong as its weakest link. A compelling ad is wasted if inquiries land with an untrained responder.
How fast are calls and emails returned? Speed wins. Rapid, consistent follow-up shortens vacancy and improves applicant quality. Want to test a firm? Inquire on one of their ads and time the reply.
Preparing a unit? Landlords can use our move-in/move-out checklist and view the tenant application process.
Tenant marketing and retention: showings and presentation
How do they prepare homes for showings? Details decide outcomes. Clean, well-lit rooms, curb appeal, and clear signage matter.
Will they show an occupied unit? Yes—when handled respectfully and safely. Ads should go live before move-out to compress vacancy.
Who shows the unit? Lockboxes or guided tours? Guided showings sell the home and the lease. Unsupervised showings risk theft and rental fraud and miss live Q&A about terms and the neighborhood.
For rules and process support, see our guide to LTB hearings in Ontario.
Tenant retention programs that actually keep tenants
Longer stays reduce turnover and placement costs. They stabilize income and improve care. A strong retention program includes:
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Fast responses to service requests
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Regular check-ins and feedback loops
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Clear notice of rent increases and the “why”
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Fair, targeted renewal incentives
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Thoughtful touches like welcome packets and seasonal updates
Listen for process, not guesswork. Retention should be a priority, not an afterthought.
What’s next: tenant screening
If pricing is fair, applicants will come. The challenge is finding qualified tenants. Next, we’ll cover screening in detail.
