Why do tenants make appointments and not keep them?

[Aly W.]

As a new rental owner, I'd like some feedback from tenants. In the last 3 weeks, I've had 25 people make appointments to see my rental house.

I've confirmed with several the day before. I also ask when making the appointment that they please give me a call if they can't make it.

So far, not one has shown up for their appointment. I've called a few, and the reasons range from "I was in the hospital" (2 of them), to "I'm getting in a cab right now", and "I forgot about it, I'm on vacation this week".

This weekend, 3 people called to see the house. I asked them to call an hour before they'd like to see it, and none did. So at least I saved myself a trip.

But I'd appreciate input from tenants as to why they make appointments, even confirm them the day before, then don't show up. Thanks!

[Michael Shadow]

I like making the people looking at the property call 30 minutes before the appointment, that way I know they are going to show up (Thanks MikeOH for that tip :D ). I think handling it that way also shows you that you have a better quality tenant because they are one that will put forth the effort to pick up the phone and call you. If they call 30 minutes on the button then I'm pretty sure I have a qualified tenant. Most people won't keep appointments these days and when you get one that does it shows a lot for their character.

-Michael