Unlock Long-Term Tenants: Reducing Turnover in Raleigh & The Triangle.

How to Reduce Turnover in Raleigh’s Rental Market

Tenant turnover isn’t just inconvenient—it’s expensive. In the fast-moving Triangle rental market, reducing turnover is one of the best ways to protect your ROI and minimize stress. This guide walks you through what causes turnover, what it really costs, and what you can do to keep great tenants longer.

At a Glance: What You’ll Learn

• The hidden costs of turnover (beyond missed rent)
• How to screen tenants to avoid future problems
• Why clear leases and early communication matter
• MasterKey’s proactive approach to retention

The Real Cost of Tenant Turnover

Most owners think of vacancy loss—but that’s just the beginning. Here's what you're really paying for when a tenant leaves:

The average turnover can cost $1,000–$5,000+, depending on property condition and time vacant.

Prevention Starts Before Move-In

1. Rigorous Tenant Screening

The goal isn’t just filling a vacancy—it’s finding the right fit. At MasterKey, we take screening seriously:

• Pre-screening filters (income, credit, rental history)
• Detailed applications and income verification
• Comprehensive background and credit checks
• Reference calls to past landlords

Pro Tip from Robert Dell’Osso, CEO MasterKey:
“Placing the wrong tenant is the #1 cause of early lease breaks. That’s why we never skip steps in our screening process.”

2. Clear, Compliant, and Fair Lease Agreements

A strong lease protects your investment—and your tenant relationship. It should be:

• Transparent: rent, rules, and responsibilities clearly outlined
• Compliant with NC law: security deposits, notice requirements, maintenance duties

Pro Tip from Robert Dell’Osso, CEO MasterKey:
"A vague or punitive lease leads to disputes and early move-outs. A fair and clear lease builds trust and stability."

Communication = Retention

Your tenant is your customer. And customers don’t stay when they feel ignored.

Build Trust Early

• Be responsive and reachable
• Offer multiple ways to communicate (email, portal, phone)
• Set and meet clear response-time expectations

Proactive Touches

• Check in quarterly
• Provide portal access for documents & requests
• Let tenants know about updates before they ask

Pro Tip from Robert Dell’Osso, CEO MasterKey:
“Communication is everything” isn’t a tagline—it’s a system we live by at MasterKey.

What’s Next? Coming in Part 2:

• Strategic maintenance and curb appeal upgrades 
• Lease renewal incentives that work 
• Creating community and comfort in your rentals