I’m not knocking it at all, but it’s very competitive compared to many other niches where it’s easier to stand out.

Go on zillow etc and see what your competition is, rentometer, etc

However, we also see inventory down as many sellers choose to wait until after the first of the year, resulting in less seller competition. many sellers choose to wait because coordinating showings and getting a home ready for market during this time of year can be overwhelming to some. 

At the same time, apartments are expensive and the competition among buyers is high.

Reduced expenses for trash and landscape by getting competitive bids.

Just look at your competition and see what they are charging and how full their calendars are.

But my properties were/are higher end rentals, so maybe it’s the financial position of the tenant that’s a determining factor.in answer to the OP’s question, if a tenants lease expired and he wanted either a month to month or a 3 or 6 month lease, I would tend to do the following:in a very weak rental market I would be inclined to keep the rental rate the same.in a normal to strong market I’d charge 10-15% more monthly on a 6 month lease, 20-30% more on a 3 month lease, and 35% more for month to month.in a very strong market I would do a competitive rent survey and let that guide me. 

All I use it for is to inspect roofs and check the number of vehicles parked outside my competition. 

Being a private lender in a never ending competition to get clients between everyone else.

I'd focus on looking who is your competition for both options renting and selling.