Thinking of Renting Your Home Without an Agent? You’re Not Alone

More and more homeowners are skipping the realtor and renting directly to tenants. And why not? Renting homes for rent by owner gives you full control, saves on commission fees, and puts more monthly income in your pocket.

But here’s the catch: if you don’t have a process, you could end up with late payments, maintenance chaos, or the wrong tenant entirely.

In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to list your rental, screen applicants, and handle logistics—without using a property manager or agent.

Step 1: Make Sure Your Property Is Rent-Ready

Before you create a listing, you need to make sure your home meets tenant expectations and legal requirements.

Checklist:

• Deep clean every room, including appliances and bathrooms

• Repair anything broken (outlets, door locks, screens, faucets)

• Test smoke detectors and HVAC systems

• Make curb appeal a priority (first impressions matter)

• Ensure the property complies with local housing codes

Pro tip: Take professional-quality photos while the space is clean and vacant—it will boost clicks when you list it.

Step 2: Set a Competitive Rental Price

Overpricing means longer vacancy. Underpricing means leaving money on the table.

To get the pricing right:

• Check local listings for similar homes

• Compare amenities, square footage, and condition

• Use rental estimate tools like Rentometer or Zillow

• Factor in utilities, maintenance, and property taxes

Step 3: Write a Listing That Stands Out

You have just a few seconds to capture attention online. That means your headline and photos need to work hard.

A great listing should:

• Highlight the most attractive feature early (“Spacious 3BR Home with Backyard & Office”)

• Be clear about rent, security deposit, and availability

• Mention your application process upfront (e.g., “Background check required”)

• Include multiple photos of every room + outdoor space

Step 4: Post on the Right Rental Platforms

Don’t rely on one site. Cast a wide net using platforms where tenants are actively searching.

Best free and paid options:

• Zillow Rental Manager

• Facebook Marketplace

• Apartments.com

• HotPads

• Craigslist (with caution and screening)

Bonus: Some sites allow you to collect applications and even screen tenants directly within the platform.

Step 5: Use Online Applications and Screening Tools

Screening is where things often go wrong for DIY landlords. Never skip this step—even if the tenant “seems nice.”

What to include in your application:

• Full name, ID, and contact info

• Employment and income verification

• Rental history with landlord references

• Consent for a background and credit check

Recommended tenant screening tools:

• Avail

• RentSpree

• SmartMove

• TurboTenant

These services provide full tenant screening reports including credit history, criminal background, and eviction records.

Step 6: Set Expectations with a Clear Lease Agreement

Never rely on a handshake deal. A solid lease agreement protects both you and your tenant and prevents disputes later on.

Your lease should clearly state:

• Rent amount, due date, and grace period

• Security deposit amount and terms

• Maintenance responsibilities (who does what)

• Rules on guests, pets, smoking, subletting, etc.

• Lease duration and renewal options

• Consequences for nonpayment or violations

You can find customizable, state-compliant templates through legal tools or rental platforms.

Step 7: Collect Rent Electronically

In 2025, checks are out. Online rent collection is not only more convenient—it gets you paid faster and improves tenant compliance.

Popular rent collection platforms:

• PayPal or Zelle (for basic use)

• Avail or Buildium (for recurring rent payments)

• RentRedi or Cozy (also offer mobile apps)

Choose a tool that lets tenants pay via credit card, debit card, or ACH. Automate reminders and late fees to save time.

Be the Property Owner Who Finds Great Tenants—Without the Extra Fees

Renting your home without a realtor isn’t just doable—it’s efficient and empowering when you have the right systems in place. From pricing and marketing to screening and rent collection, today’s tools make it possible to manage your own rental without sacrificing quality.

Recap:

• Prep your home and price it correctly

• List across multiple platforms with clear expectations

• Use digital tools for applications and screening

• Write a strong lease agreement

• Set up online rent collection to simplify your life