The drive-by used to happen from behind the wheel, but now it can happen on the phone. Before a prospective tenant schedules a showing, they may scroll through photos, check reviews, compare listings, look for virtual tours and judge how quickly someone responds to their inquiry. In other words, the physical tour may no longer be the first impression... instead it may be the second.
For renters, getting through the door quickly can matter almost as much as what is behind it. Rently’s 2026 Renter Touring Report found that 47% of renters have chosen, or seriously considered choosing, a less desirable rental simply because it was easier to tour. Even more telling, 68% said they have lost interest in a rental because scheduling a tour was too difficult.
For investors, that makes convenience more than a customer-service perk. It can directly affect how quickly a property moves from vacant to leased. Self-guided tours, online scheduling and prompt responses can remove friction and keep a prospect moving forward instead of moving on. An online rental listing is increasingly the property's digital front door. Professional photography, accurate property details, virtual tour options and an easy way to schedule can determine whether a prospect ever makes it to the actual front door.
A 2026 Renter Preferences Report by AppFolio reinforces the broader shift: convenience and responsiveness have become table stakes for maintaining occupancy and performance, while 90% of renters say a property management company's online reputation influences their leasing decisions.
What does this mean for investors? Rental appeal really does start online. A great property can still lose a qualified renter if the listing looks dated, the tour process is complicated or communication is slow. A better digital leasing experience can help reduce vacancy, keep properties occupied and maximize your investment. Make sure your property wins before the tenant ever pulls into the driveway.
Did You Know: Opportunity Zones (OZs)
Everything You Need to Know in 60 Seconds!
What is an Opportunity Zone? An Opportunity Zone is a designated area where investors may receive tax benefits for making certain investments in real estate or businesses. Investors typically participate through a Qualified Opportunity Fund (QOF).
Who can benefit from Opportunity Zones? Real estate investors and other taxpayers with eligible capital gains may be able to invest those gains through a QOF and receive potential tax benefits.
Where are Opportunity Zones located? Opportunity Zones are located throughout the U.S. in urban, suburban, and rural communities. Investors can check whether a property is located in a designated zone before investing.
When did Opportunity Zones begin? The program was created in 2017 as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The program has since been updated, with a new round of Opportunity Zones expected to begin in 2027.
Why should SFR investors care? For SFR investors, Opportunity Zones can provide a potential tax advantage. This may be helpful for investors planning long-term rentals, new construction, or major renovations.
Investor Takeaway: Think of Opportunity Zones as a potential tax benefit, not a reason to buy a property. Investors should still focus on the fundamentals: rental demand, purchase price, financing, operating costs, and potential appreciation. If the property makes sense on its own, Opportunity Zone benefits could be an added advantage.
