Having trouble renting unit in Duplex (Los Angeles,CA)

[Chisom O.]

Hi All,

I recently purchased a duplex, and I've been trying to get it rented for the better part of two and a half months. It's a small 2BR/2BA, about 820 square feet, just outside DTLA, walking distance to Echo Park. I have had tons of interest and two applications that I had to reject (applicant had no form of income and signed with a guarantor, and other applicants' income was too low/had two cars). The unit is unique and was recently gutted and completely renovated. All new appliances, side yard. It's a very nice apartment, BUT because of the structure, the unit does not have parking, which has been a major deterrent for people. Street parking is hard though there is a private parking lot 3 blocks away. Plus, It is located in a more congested neighborhood in LA, so there is a lot more trash.

I am already offering the unit below the market rate. I rented out the smaller upper unit for $2400, so I can't come down from the already low $2550-$2600 I am asking for the lower unit. I have marketed the unit everywhere (CL, Facebook, Zillow, Avail, even considered Bungalow, etc.) and have opened it up to Section 8 tenants (I haven't gotten much traction going this route).

Any tips on what I should do? Any good ways to reach my target demographic: people who use public transportation.

Here is a link to the Craigslist listing: https://losangeles.craigslist....

All feedback is appreciated. Thank you very much for any help or advice!