Renting between the months of Nov-Feb

[Luka Milicevic]

Hi BP,

I recently heard on one of the podcasts that it's very difficult to rent out a house between the months of November through February. I've never been in a position to rent out a property during these months, and quite honestly, I never thought about this until I heard it on the podcast. 

I'm curious, how is it trying to rent during the winter months? Also, is there a best time to list a property for rent?

[Ryan Mullin]

November, December and January are brutal for our leasing business.  Definitely less qualified people moving in those months.  February 1st is an ideal time to be listing a property for rent.  Lots of qualified tenants start getting tax return checks or at least start anticipating it...  which makes it a lot easier to come up with enough money to move.  

Really, the best time to list a rental is right now, or ASAP.  Just because its winter doesn't mean that no one is moving... just less people.  I like to try to get people on 6 or 18 months leases when they rent in the winter months.  Its important to get off that cycle.  Winter is the absolute worst time to have a vacancy. Deciding to winterize or pay the heat bill is a lose/lose decision.  Winterizing is cheaper but when you show a vacancy in the winter you want it to be warm inside not freezing cold.  Not really sure how cold it gets in Tennessee but Indy has had some pretty brutal winters lately.  

~just my 2 cents!