Optimizing Lease End Dates to Reduce Vacancy

[Michael Herring]

I searched a bit so my apologies if this has been discussed at length before.

I'm getting ready to sign new tenants and started thinking about options to reduce vacancy time at the end of the lease.  Up to now, I've tried to have a lease come up for renewal in late spring or early summer.  Anything but the middle of winter.

I was also kicking around the idea of having a lease end 10-15 days before the end of the month so I could start advertising it as available at the first of the next month when I'm assuming most people will want to start a lease and also have a few days to get in and do any necessary work.

Does anyone else do this or is there a better strategy for reducing the vacancy time between tenants?  Any input is appreciated.