How Do I Best Advertise My Rental Property in San Antonio?

By Bobbye Joe McMillan

Bobbye Joe McMillan is the driving force behind Cornerstone Property Management, bringing over 30 years of expertise in real estate to help clients achieve their property goals.

Struggling to find tenants who are the right fit for your rental? Or getting questions but no solid leads? With rental demand staying strong in 2026, renters are more selective than ever. Simply posting a listing online may not be enough to attract the right tenants.

Today, getting your rental noticed takes the right tools and a smart approach.

Let’s break down how to advertise your rental so it stands out, starting with great visuals and reaching the right renters.

1. Professional photos and (maybe) video tours. The first impression potential tenants have of your rental property is often through pictures or video. It’s no surprise that listings with high-quality visuals receive far more attention than those with poor or no visuals at all. Homes with professional photos can get up to 61% more views than those without.

If you want, you can also create a video tour of the property. A well-executed video tour can let tenants explore the property remotely, helping them decide whether to visit in person. Virtual tours have become increasingly important, especially in the post-pandemic world, where tenants are more likely to screen homes from the comfort of their own space.

2. Listing platforms. Once you have those professional visuals, the next step is ensuring your property reaches as many potential tenants as possible. Listing on multiple platforms is a must. While popular sites like Zillow, Apartments.com, and Realtor.com remain staples, don’t overlook other platforms like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace. These platforms attract a range of renters, giving your property greater exposure.

Social media platforms are also powerful tools for marketing rentals. Short video tours, photos, and lifestyle shots of the neighborhood can increase engagement and interest. The more platforms you list your property on, the better your chances of finding qualified tenants quickly.

3. Clear, detailed descriptions. Photos attract attention, but the description helps renters decide if the property fits their needs. A great description goes beyond listing the basics and conveys why your property is a great place to live. Highlight key features such as modern appliances, spacious rooms, or pet-friendly policies, and include the rent amount, security deposit, and lease terms.

Your description should also answer questions tenants may have about the neighborhood, nearby amenities such as grocery stores, public transport, schools, and parking options.

The clearer and more detailed your description is, the fewer questions you’ll have to answer down the line. Transparency helps set clear expectations and reduces misunderstandings with potential tenants.

4. Professional signage and open houses. Online marketing is essential, but traditional methods still have value. Professional signage is an effective way to attract attention, especially for properties located in high-traffic areas. A simple, clean sign with your contact information can be just as valuable as an online listing.

Along with professional signage, hosting an open house lets multiple potential tenants see the property at once. They can explore the space firsthand and ask questions in real-time. Open houses are also a great way to connect with tenants personally, which can help you gauge if they’d be a good fit for your property.

5. Targeting the right audience. Not all tenants are the same, and not all rental properties appeal to the same group. This is why it’s important to target the right audience in your advertising. If your property is located in a bustling urban center, it might appeal to young professionals looking for easy access to work, restaurants, and entertainment. If it’s a quiet, suburban home with a large yard, families may be your best bet.

Tailoring your advertising to your audience means using the correct language and emphasizing features that matter to them. If you’re targeting families, for example, emphasize nearby schools, neighborhood safety, and yard space. On the other hand, if you’re targeting young professionals, focus on walkability to local hotspots or nearby public transportation.

In 2026, renters are more selective than ever, so getting your property noticed requires smart strategies. Track which photos, descriptions, and platforms generate the most interest, and make small adjustments as needed. Doing this can help your property stand out and get rented more efficiently.

If you’re ready to fill your rental, these strategies are just the start. For personalized guidance on advertising and screening tenants, feel free to reach out at 210-440-1223 or bmcmillan@cornerstonepmtx.com. I can guide you through the entire process.