How to Create a Homeshare Listing That Will Attract the Right Renter

The listing is usually the first impression home seekers will have of any available rental space. Follow these tips to help attract the right renter to share your space.

When listing a space, it's important to display an accurate description. Avoid wasting anyone’s time by including the obvious pros and cons up front. These details include information about the general location and its amenities, such as local shopping, freeway access, or a nice patio. On the other hand, being honest about the drawbacks of the listed space is important. Note the proximity to a noisy train, the presence of dogs or children, or other factors which could be inconvenient or unpleasant for certain people. Keep in mind that something that is a drawback for one person might be a positive for another.  

Describe the home, include the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, number of occupants, and list shared spaces. Also, describe the private space which is for rent. The square footage and details about amenities and entry are important to include (is it furnished?). Provide information about which utilities are included, such as high speed internet access or cable television.

Fair housing rules apply differently to shared housing than they do to separate rental units. If you have a preference for gender, age, or other personal qualifiers you are looking for in a roommate, include that information on the listing. You should also provide clarity about whether or not the homeshare can accommodate more than one renter--for example, a couple, or a single parent and their child.

Pet policy is also critical to outline in the homeshare listing. Additionally, comfort with exposure to smoke, cannabis, and alcohol is important to describe. As a homeowner, be transparent about any fees or background checks which will be enforced throughout the application process.

Lastly, including accurate, well lit, and clear photos of the home is essential. Include photos of both the private and shared spaces. Photos taken on a smart phone are perfectly fine for an online listing, there is no need to hire a professional photographer to create a rental listing for home share.

Next: Homeshare Listing Platforms: Where to Look and List

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