How to Advertise Your Rental Property in Arkansas

Renting out property in Arkansas can be a steady source of income—especially if you know how to attract the right tenants. Whether you own a single-family home in Little Rock, a student rental near the University of Arkansas, or a duplex in a quiet suburb like Bentonville, a strong advertising strategy will help reduce vacancy and bring in reliable renters.

Arkansas’s rental market spans both urban and rural areas, with demand ranging from college students and healthcare workers to families and retirees. Each group is looking for something slightly different. That’s why crafting a listing that speaks to your audience—and knowing where to post it—is key to success.

This guide walks you through how to advertise your rental property in Arkansas: from preparing the unit and writing a compelling listing to choosing the right platforms and understanding local renter expectations.

Preparing Your Rental Property for Advertising

Before you write a single word of your listing, make sure the property itself is in great shape. Renters judge listings based on visual impressions—and those start with the quality of your space and the photos you share.

Start with the basics:

• Make repairs: Fix anything broken, from leaky faucets to loose cabinet doors.
• Deep clean: Floors, bathrooms, baseboards, windows—every detail matters.
• Add curb appeal: Mow the lawn, sweep the porch, and remove clutter from outdoor areas.

Once the property is cleaned and prepped, take well-lit, high-quality photos. Natural light works best, and wide-angle shots help renters get a feel for the space. If your property has popular Arkansas features—like a covered porch, ceiling fans, or a spacious backyard—make sure those shine in the photos.

You may also want to jot down a list of key features before writing the listing. These might include:

• Central heating and air
• Washer/dryer hookups or in-unit laundry
• Fenced yard
• Off-street or covered parking
• Proximity to schools, employers, or public transit

Where to Advertise Your Arkansas Rental

Posting your listing in the right places helps maximize exposure and attract the best renters. In Arkansas, it’s best to combine national platforms with local tools to reach both in-state movers and out-of-town renters looking to relocate.

Zillow Rental Manager

One of the most widely used rental platforms. Zillow also syndicates to Trulia and HotPads, boosting your reach automatically.

Apartments.com

Ideal for long-term leases and renters searching in larger cities like Little Rock and Fayetteville. You can add 3D tours and detailed amenity lists.

Craigslist Arkansas

Still a strong option, especially in more rural or less tech-savvy markets. Use clear descriptions and real photos to build trust.

Facebook Marketplace and Local Housing Groups

This is one of the fastest ways to find local renters. Search for housing groups specific to your city or region, and be sure to include clear terms and photos.

University Housing Boards

If your rental is near a college or university, post on their off-campus housing portals. Fayetteville, Jonesboro, and Conway all have active student housing networks.

Property Management Platforms (like Hemlane)

Hemlane lets you list across multiple platforms at once, while also managing tenant screening, communication, and lease documents in one place. It's a great choice for landlords managing multiple units or working remotely.

Rental Listing Platform Comparison

How to Write an Effective Rental Listing

A well-crafted listing helps you stand out from other landlords and gives prospective renters the information they need to decide quickly. Keep your language clear and informative, and always tailor the listing to your local market.

Start with a strong headline

Your title should include the number of bedrooms, property type, location, and one standout feature.

Examples:

• 2BR House with Fenced Yard – Close to Downtown Little Rock
• Studio Apartment Near U of A – Includes Washer/Dryer

Cover the essentials in the description

Write in short paragraphs or bullet points to keep things easy to read. Include:

• Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
• Square footage (if known)
• Monthly rent and security deposit
• Lease start date and duration
• Included utilities, if any
• Pet policy
• Unique features (e.g., energy-efficient appliances, covered carport, hardwood floors)

Highlight location perks

Mention nearby schools, shopping, or public transit. In Arkansas, proximity to outdoor recreation or hospitals may also appeal to renters.

Use clear, well-lit images

Include at least 6–10 images that show every major room, plus exterior shots. Natural lighting and horizontal framing generally look best.

Optional upgrades

If possible, add a short video walkthrough. This is especially helpful in college towns or if you’re marketing to out-of-town renters.

Legal Requirements When Advertising Rentals in Arkansas

When advertising your rental property, you need to be mindful of both federal and state regulations. Even well-meaning landlords can unknowingly include language that violates Fair Housing laws or misleads potential tenants.

Follow Fair Housing guidelines

Federal law prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or familial status. This means avoiding phrases like “perfect for single professionals” or “no kids.” Your listing should focus on the property—not the type of person you imagine living in it.

Be honest and transparent

Arkansas landlords are expected to provide accurate information in their ads. Misrepresenting the condition, size, or amenities of a unit can lead to legal disputes down the line. Always disclose key details like monthly rent, fees, and rental requirements upfront.

Optional: Reference state resources

While Arkansas doesn’t have as many state-specific advertising regulations as some other states, you can review general landlord-tenant guidelines through the Arkansas Attorney General’s website.

Arkansas City-Specific Advertising Tips

Each region in Arkansas comes with its own renter preferences and advertising quirks. Here are a few city-specific strategies to help tailor your listing to the local audience.

Little Rock

The state's capital has a wide mix of renters, from professionals working in the medical district to government employees. Highlight proximity to hospitals, downtown, or schools. Off-street parking and updated interiors perform well here.

Fayetteville

Home to the University of Arkansas, this college town has heavy demand during late spring and summer. Mention walking distance to campus, fast Wi-Fi, and flexible lease terms. Student-friendly features like furnished units or roommate setups are a plus.

Hot Springs

Tourism and short-term stays shape the rental market here. If your property allows short-term or monthly leases, that’s worth promoting. Emphasize features like porches, walkability, and access to bathhouses or lakes.

Jonesboro

As a hub for healthcare and higher education, rentals near Arkansas State University or local hospitals are in high demand. Family-friendly units with yards, school access, or quiet neighborhoods tend to perform well.

Bentonville & Northwest Arkansas

This fast-growing region draws corporate workers and families. Focus on modern features, school zones, and proximity to trails or parks. Listings with smart home features or energy-efficient appliances stand out.

Advanced Advertising Strategies

If your listing isn’t getting traction—or you’re looking to fill a vacancy fast—consider these next-level strategies:

• Time your listing carefully: In college towns, list well before the semester starts. In family-oriented areas, aim for spring or early summer when school transitions are easiest. Even in slower markets, timing can affect how fast you get leads.
• Offer move-in incentives: Discounted first-month rent, waived application fees, or including utilities can help set your listing apart. Just make sure the terms are clear in both the ad and lease agreement.
• Emphasize upgrades and energy savings: Central air, new insulation, and updated windows matter in Arkansas's hot summers. If your unit is energy-efficient, list the estimated utility costs. Renters appreciate knowing they can save on bills.
• Add a virtual tour: A short video walkthrough or even a narrated slideshow can help out-of-town renters visualize the space. This is especially helpful in markets like Fayetteville or Hot Springs where relocation is common.
• Use a syndication tool: Software like Hemlane allows you to post once and share your listing across multiple platforms. It also helps with tracking leads, scheduling showings, and screening tenants, making the entire process more efficient.

Sample Rental Listing Template

Here’s a customizable example to help you get started. Aim for clarity, not salesy language—renters want to know the facts.

2BR Apartment with Private Patio – Walk to Downtown Bentonville

Available August 1 – $1,250/month – Bentonville, AR

Well-maintained 2-bedroom, 1.5-bath apartment just minutes from downtown Bentonville and the Razorback Greenway. This unit features updated flooring, central air, an in-unit washer/dryer, and a private back patio.

Includes reserved parking, lawn care, and water. Pets welcome with an additional deposit. Quiet neighborhood close to local shops, parks, and Crystal Bridges.

• Rent: $1,250/month
• Security Deposit: $1,250
• Lease Term: 12 months preferred
• Utilities: Tenant pays electric and internet
• Contact: bentonvilleleasing@email.com | (479) 555-6789

How to Handle Inquiries After Advertising

Once your listing goes live, you’ll start getting emails, messages, and phone calls. How you manage that interest makes a big difference in both speed and quality of tenant placement.

Respond quickly

Most renters reach out to multiple landlords at once. Replying within 24 hours—or sooner—shows you're serious and organized.

Pre-screen before showing

Save time by asking basic questions up front:

• What’s your desired move-in date?
• Do you have pets?
• How many people would be living in the unit?
• Do you meet the income or credit criteria?

Offer flexible showings

Virtual tours, FaceTime walk-throughs, or weekend showings make your property more accessible—especially to out-of-town movers or students.

Track your leads

Keep a spreadsheet or use software like Hemlane to log contact info, pre-screening notes, and follow-up dates. Staying organized helps prevent missed opportunities.

Common Advertising Mistakes to Avoid

A few small missteps can stall interest in your rental—here’s what to look out for:

1. Skipping high-quality photos

Listings without clear, well-lit images often get overlooked. At minimum, include photos of the kitchen, living room, each bedroom, and bathroom.

2. Leaving out essential info

Renters shouldn’t have to guess the monthly rent or whether pets are allowed. Always include pricing, lease term, deposit amount, pet policy, and move-in date.

3. Overpricing based on emotion, not data

Look at comparable listings in your area to stay competitive. Use Zillow or Rentometer to compare prices and adjust based on condition, location, and features.

4. Writing for the "ideal renter" instead of the property

Avoid describing the “perfect tenant.” It can unintentionally violate fair housing laws. Stick to property features and rental terms instead.

Should You Hire a Professional?

Managing advertising—and everything that follows—can take time and effort. If you want help, you’ve got options.

• Property Management Companies: They handle advertising, screening, lease signing, rent collection, and maintenance. Ideal for out-of-state landlords or those managing multiple properties.
• Licensed Real Estate Agents in Arkansas: A real estate agent can list your rental, show the property, and help you screen applicants. Be sure they’re familiar with rental law, not just sales.
• Property Management Software (like Hemlane): If you prefer to stay hands-on without juggling spreadsheets and messages, software might be the perfect fit. With Hemlane, you can:
  • Syndicate your listing to dozens of rental sites
  • Track leads and automate responses
  • Screen tenants and manage leases in one place

This option works well for DIY landlords who want to stay organized and scale efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Advertising your rental property in Arkansas isn’t just about getting it listed—it’s about getting it seen by the right tenants. Whether you’re renting out a home in Fayetteville or managing a duplex in Little Rock, the right combination of preparation, platform selection, and professional communication can make all the difference.

By taking the time to create a compelling listing, using quality photos, and staying organized with your inquiries, you’ll attract more qualified renters and fill vacancies faster. And if you’re looking to save time along the way, the right tools can streamline the entire process.

Simplify Rental Advertising with Hemlane

Hemlane helps Arkansas landlords manage the full rental process—from advertising and screening to lease signing and communication. With syndication across major listing platforms and built-in tools for staying organized, Hemlane makes it easier to attract and manage reliable tenants.

Start your free 14-day trial today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to advertise rental property?

The best way to advertise a rental property is to list it on multiple platforms—such as Zillow, Apartments.com, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace—while also including high-quality photos and a detailed, transparent description. Using a syndication tool like Hemlane can help streamline the process by posting to multiple sites at once.

What is the 2% rule for rental properties?

The 2% rule is a real estate investing guideline suggesting that a rental property's monthly rent should be at least 2% of its purchase price. For example, if a property costs $100,000, it should ideally rent for $2,000 per month. While this can be difficult to achieve in many markets, it's a quick way to assess potential cash flow.

Where do most people post their rentals?

Most landlords use platforms like Zillow Rental Manager, Apartments.com, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist. Many also list on university housing boards in college towns. Property management software can simplify the process by posting to several of these platforms at once.

How to advertise a rental property for free?

To advertise your rental for free, you can list on:

• Facebook Marketplace
• Local housing Facebook groups
• Craigslist
• University or community bulletin board
  • Some sites like Zillow may offer your first listing free, but charge for additional ones.

What is the 50% rule in rental property?

The 50% rule is a rule of thumb used by rental property investors. It states that about 50% of a property’s rental income will go toward operating expenses—excluding mortgage payments. It’s a rough way to estimate cash flow and evaluate the potential profitability of a rental.