Here’s the truth: the number you choose for rent makes or breaks your success as a landlord. Price it too high, and your property sits empty. Price it too low, and you’re leaving money on the table—or attracting the wrong kind of tenants.

The key? Finding that sweet spot where your rent is competitive, covers your costs, and appeals to quality tenants. At Evergreen Home Buyers, we’ve bought, flipped, and rented plenty of properties in Jacksonville, and we’ve learned a few things about what really works.

Here are the top factors to consider when setting your rental price:

1. Know Your Competition Before you post your listing, take a good look at the market. What are similar homes renting for in your area? If your place is older or less updated, you may need to adjust your price to stay competitive. On the flip side, pricing too low can sometimes backfire and bring in tenants who won’t treat your property with care. Aim for that middle ground: competitive, fair, and profitable.

2. Use the 2% Guideline (as a Starting Point) A common rule of thumb says rent should be around 2% of your property’s value. So, a $150,000 home might rent for about $3,000 per month. But remember—this is a guideline, not a hard rule. Market conditions, neighborhood demand, and property type all play a huge role in what renters are actually willing to pay.

3. Factor in Location It’s no secret: location is everything in real estate. If your property is in a desirable neighborhood—close to great schools, shopping, or downtown—you can usually charge more. If demand is lower in your area, you may need to be flexible. The better you understand your neighborhood’s rental demand, the more accurate your pricing will be.

4. Highlight Amenities Does your property come with a pool, new appliances, or even just a short walk to the park? These extras can help justify a higher rent and make your property stand out. Don’t be shy about showcasing amenities in your listing—tenants pay attention to the details.

Setting the right rental price takes research, strategy, and a little balance. Get it right, and you’ll attract great tenants while still protecting your bottom line.

And if you’ve decided being a landlord just isn’t for you? That’s okay, too. At Evergreen Home Buyers, we help homeowners in Jacksonville sell their houses as-is for cash. No repairs, no waiting, no stress. We can give you a fair cash offer in just 48 hours and close in as little as two weeks. Call us at (904) 342-3216 to learn more.