Residential rentals are popular in Atlanta, GA. The city was ranked among the top 20 best cities for renters in 2023.
Renting has many benefits, but how much of these benefits you reap can come down to whether your rental is being let by the owner or by a property management company.
For rent by owner properties have unique benefits. Since you're dealing directly with the owner, you have some room to negotiate on lease terms, and you can reach them easily whenever there's an issue that needs their input.
But how do you find these properties?
Here are a few helpful tips:
Utilize Digital Platforms
Many private landlords are using digital platforms to list their properties. Byowner.com is one of the most popular websites you can use. Just enter the ZIP code and the site will give you a list of vacant rentals in that area.
Social media is another useful resource for renters who are looking for these properties. A simple "for rent by owner properties" search on Facebook Marketplace, for example, can lead you to pages or posts where you can find them.
You can also use search engines like Google and Bing to conduct your search.
Be advised that there are scammers who prey on innocent renters. Once you've found a lead, don't make any payments until you've visited the property and met the landlord.
Be on the Lookout for "For Rent by Owner" Signs
Some landlords still rely on the good old method of erecting "for rent by owner" signs outside the houses they're renting. Even with digitization, signage marketing is still effective, both in terms of cost and reach.
After you've identified the Atlanta neighborhoods you'd like to move to, take a drive and be on the lookout for these signs. Call the landlords and schedule a viewing as soon as possible since the demand for these properties is high.
You still need to be on high alert for scammers. If possible, ask a friend to accompany you to the viewing for safety reasons.
Ask Around!
When you need something, chances are one of your friends knows where you can find it. Finding Atlanta for rent by owner properties is no different.
If you have a good network of friends in the A-Town, ask them if they know of any properties being let by private landlords. Someone might even be living in an apartment complex that's entirely let and managed by the owner!
If you don't get any leads, at least ask them to be on the lookout for signage in their neighborhoods.
For Rent by Owner Properties Are Waiting for You
If your preference is to live in a for rent by owner property, you now know how to go about your search. Whichever strategy you use, remember patience is key. It can take several weeks or even months to find your ideal rental.
However, if you change your mind and wish to rent a professionally managed rental, PMI North Atlanta has your back. Although locally operated, we're part of a national real estate management franchise that prides itself on providing first-class services to both property owners and renters.
Contact us for more information.
