Renting to College Students: Crafting a Stellar Student-Housing Website

If you're in the game of renting apartments to the vibrant world of college students, you're in for quite the ride.

College students are a unique bunch. They have specific needs and preferences that make them stand out in the housing world. But building an apartment website for them isn't just about aesthetics – it's about speaking their language and understanding exactly what they are looking for in their next home.

Whether you're a seasoned property pro looking to boost your online presence or a newbie taking on the student housing scene, we're here to guide you on how to craft your student housing website to generate more leads when you're renting to college students.

Let's jump right in!

When it comes to the world of online real estate, not all websites are created equal. Student housing websites, in particular, have their own unique flair and distinct set of features that set them apart from your typical property listings.

So, what makes them stand out? It's all about understanding that students have a different rhythm – shorter decision timelines, unique priorities, and a whole lot of energy.

To create a student housing website that'll have them clicking and tapping with excitement, let's first get inside the minds of our academic adventurers. Here's what makes them click:

For college students, convenience is everything. Student housing websites should prioritize showcasing properties that are close to campus and their community. The shorter the commute to class, the better. Highlighting this proximity and ease of access is a fundamental aspect that distinguishes these websites.

Forget about just mentioning swimming pools and gyms; student housing websites go the extra mile to showcase amenities that resonate with students. Think study lounges, communal kitchens, game rooms, and even on-site tutoring services. These are the types of amenities that can make or break a student's decision to rent.

College life can be unpredictable, and students often require flexible leasing options. Your student housing website should prominently feature lease terms that cater to academic schedules – offering semester-based leases, short-term options, or even roommate matching services to ease the rental process.

When it comes to renting to college students, keep your audience in mind! It's not just the students you're catering to but often their parents who play a significant role in the rental decision.

Many students rely on their parents to cover rent expenses, so your student housing website should go the extra mile for both audiences. Highlight features like secure access, round-the-clock on-site management, and well-lit parking areas to create ease of mind for both parties.

College life is about more than just hitting the books; it's about creating unforgettable experiences. Great student housing websites get this and make sure to spotlight the fun side of their communities.

They promote exciting amenities like rooftop lounges for gatherings, outdoor movie theaters for entertainment, and a calendar filled with resident events that foster friendships and create memories.

Because when you're renting to college students, it's not just about finding a place to live; it's about offering a vibrant, community-centered lifestyle that strikes a balance between academics and fun. After all, they really are just kids at heart.

Now, let's talk style and substance. Your website design should scream 'college life,' not 'stuffy corporate'.

Here's the roadmap:

Utilize high-quality, engaging visuals that capture the essence of student life. Incorporate images of students studying, hanging out in common areas, and enjoying the amenities your housing offers. Authenticity is key here; steer clear of stock photos!

Ever visited a website and had to dig through useless information to find what you were looking for? Yeah, you don't want that. Ensure your website's navigation is intuitive and user-friendly.

Students and parents should easily find information about floor plans, pricing, amenities, and the application process. Use clear headings and organized menus to guide them through the site.

When renting to college students, chances are they will complete the renter's journey all from the comfort of their phones. Given that students are often on the go, make sure your website is fully responsive for mobile devices. A responsive design ensures that your site looks and functions well on smartphones and tablets, providing a seamless browsing experience.

Consider incorporating interactive floor plans that allow visitors to explore your housing options in a dynamic way. Include 360-degree virtual tours, so potential residents can get a feel for the space without physically visiting.

Many college students are from out of state, so make sure you're giving them the opportunity to truly get to know the space.

Connect your website with your social media channels to keep current and potential students engaged and informed about events, updates, and community activities.

After all, 80% of renters use social media during their apartment search (MRIsoftware).

Make it easy for your website visitors to get in touch with you. Provide clear contact information and consider implementing a live chat feature for quick responses to inquiries. Ensure that students and their parents are leaving your website with more answers than they have questions.

When it comes to your student housing website, the words you choose are just as important as the design. Effective copywriting can make the difference between a visitor bouncing away and a potential resident filling out an application. Here's how to craft compelling copy for your student housing website:

Start with clear and concise headlines that instantly convey key information. Use attention-grabbing titles for sections like "Floor Plans," "Amenities," and "Apply Now." These headings should give visitors a quick overview of what they can expect to find on each page.

Focus on the benefits of living in your student housing rather than just listing the features. For example, instead of saying, "Each unit has a fully equipped kitchen," say, "Cook gourmet meals in your own spacious kitchen."

Every page should have a clear and persuasive call to action. Whether it's "Schedule a Tour," "Apply Now," or "Contact Us," make sure your CTA buttons stand out and entice visitors to take the next step.

Incorporate relevant keywords throughout your copy to improve search engine visibility. Research what terms students commonly use when searching for housing in your area and integrate them naturally into the content throughout your site.

Create separate sections for amenities and explain how they enhance the student experience. For example, don't just list "Fitness Center"; say, "Stay fit without leaving home in our state-of-the-art fitness center." Paint a vivid picture of the lifestyle your housing offers.

Anticipate and address common questions and concerns that potential residents may have. This can include information about lease terms, pet policies, security measures, and more. Providing answers upfront can save you, and them a whole lot of time.

In the world of student housing, your website is your digital front door, so don't waste it! By following these guidelines and infusing your website with personality and authenticity, you can attract and retain the next generation of students, making your property the place they can't wait to call home. So, go ahead, design, and write your way to student housing success.