Renting Out Your Second Home: The Best Time to List

8 September 2025

Owning a second home can be an exciting investment, but keeping it empty for long periods doesn’t make financial sense. Many homeowners choose to rent out their second property to generate extra income. But when is the best time to list it?

Timing is everything in real estate, and renting out your property is no exception. List it at the wrong time, and you could end up with long vacancies, lower rental income, or tenants who aren’t the right fit. So, let’s dive into when you should put that second home on the rental market to maximize your returns and attract the best tenants.

Why Timing Matters in the Rental Market

The rental market isn’t static—it fluctuates throughout the year. Demand shifts based on seasons, local economies, and even school calendars. Listing your property at the right time ensures you attract more potential tenants, reduce vacancy periods, and set a competitive rental price.

If you’ve been wondering whether to list your second home now or wait for a better season, you’re not alone. Many landlords face this dilemma. Let’s break down the ideal seasons and situations so you can make an informed decision.

Best Times of Year to List Your Rental Property

The rental market generally follows a predictable cycle. Each season has its pros and cons, so let’s explore which one works best for your situation.

1. Spring (March – May): The Prime Renting Season

Spring is one of the busiest times in the rental market. As the weather warms up, people feel more motivated to move. Companies relocate employees, families plan for summer transitions, and many college students start looking for housing for the next semester.

Why Spring Works Well:

- Higher demand means you can charge premium rent.
- The weather makes moving easier.
- Tenants are typically eager to settle before summer.

Potential Downsides:

- More competition from other landlords listing at the same time.
- Some tenants may wait for summer deals.

If you want to attract reliable, long-term renters, spring is a great time to list your second home.

2. Summer (June – August): Ideal for Families and Students

Summer is another popular time for renting, especially for families with kids who want to settle in before the new school year. College students and recent graduates also hunt for places during this time, making summer a strong season for rental demand.

Why Summer Works Well:

- Families prefer to move before school starts.
- College students seek housing for the next semester.
- Longer daylight hours make property showings easier.

Potential Downsides:

- Moving companies and rental services may be in higher demand (and more expensive).
- Some tenants in a rush may settle for a short-term lease, leading to future turnover.

If your second home is near a university, summer could be your jackpot season.

3. Fall (September – November): A Hidden Gem for Tenants Who Take Their Time

Fall isn’t as crazy as spring or summer, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. While there’s less urgency to move, people who do search during this time tend to be more serious about finding a long-term home.

Why Fall Works Well:

- Less competition from other landlords.
- Tenants are often more stable and looking for long-term leases.
- The rental market slows, giving you more negotiating power.

Potential Downsides:

- Fewer tenants actively searching.
- You may need to be flexible on pricing to attract renters.

If you prefer securing a tenant who plans to stay a while, fall could be the sweet spot for your listing.

4. Winter (December – February): The Slow Season, but with Hidden Opportunities

Winter is typically the least popular time to move. People are busy with holiday plans, bad weather makes moving challenging, and most aren’t eager to start a lease in the middle of the season. But that doesn’t mean you should avoid listing altogether.

Why Winter Works Well:

- Less competition means your property stands out.
- Some tenants (such as professionals relocating for work) need housing right away.
- You might attract renters willing to sign longer leases for a lower rent.

Potential Downsides:

- Fewer people searching = slower leasing process.
- You may have to offer incentives (such as lower rent or move-in specials).

If you own a property in a warm climate, winter could actually be your prime time—snowbirds and retirees often seek temporary rentals in sunny areas.

Other Factors That Influence When to List Your Rental

1. Location Matters

Are you renting out a beachfront home? Peak season could be summer. Own a ski cabin? Winter might be your goldmine. Your location plays a huge role in determining the best time to list.

2. Type of Property

A downtown apartment will have different demand cycles compared to a suburban family home. Consider your target renter and their lifestyle needs.

3. Market Conditions

High interest rates and shifts in the local job market can drive rental demand up or down. Pay attention to economic trends before listing.

4. Lease Timing for Future Renters

If you lock in tenants at the wrong time, it could complicate future listings. For example, signing a lease in December means their move-out date will likely be in the slow winter season. Timing leases to end in peak seasons (spring or summer) gives you better turnover opportunities.

Should You List Your Rental Property Right Now?

If you're holding onto your second home and waiting for the perfect moment, ask yourself: Is timing more important than getting a start on passive income?

Sure, there are optimal seasons, but waiting too long might mean lost income. If demand is moderate in your area, listing now—even in a slower season—might still attract the right tenant.

The key takeaway? List your property when demand is strong, but don’t overthink it to the point where your home sits empty for months on end.

Quick Tips to Maximize Your Rental Listing Success

- Price it competitively: Research local rental rates to avoid overpricing or underpricing your home.
- Market it well: High-quality photos, good descriptions, and listings on trusted rental platforms matter.
- Be flexible with terms: Offering slight rent reductions, utilities included, or a pet-friendly policy can attract more tenants.
- Stay proactive: Don’t wait until it’s too late—get inquiries and tenant applications rolling early.

Final Thoughts

Renting out your second home is a fantastic way to generate passive income, but timing your listing makes all the difference. While spring and summer are typically the best times for most landlords, your specific location, property type, and financial goals should guide your decision.

If you’re unsure when to list, consider your ideal tenant and their moving habits. And remember—the perfect listing time is the one that minimizes vacancy and maximizes rental income.