Faster Rental Turnover is Driven by Rising Demand in Roebuck, Alabama
Introduction
Roebuck is a residential neighborhood in eastern Birmingham, Alabama, with a housing landscape shaped by long-standing subdivisions, apartment complexes, and multi-family properties that span several decades of development. The location appeals to renters who seek affordability while remaining close to Birmingham’s employment and service centers. Properties range from older brick homes to garden-style apartment buildings, making it an accessible market for tenants across income levels. Its layout and zoning patterns have created a neighborhood where rental activity remains consistent and increasingly dynamic. This dynamic has intensified as demand accelerates, changing how long units remain unoccupied.
Faster rental turnover in this context means properties are leased more quickly after previous tenants vacate. High turnover is a reflection of a high level of tenant activity. This activity includes both movement into and out of the neighborhood and the frequency with which leases are signed or renewed. It also reflects how quickly properties can be cleaned, listed, and occupied again without extended vacancies. The shorter the time a unit sits unoccupied, the higher the turnover rate. That rate is not solely driven by volume but also by efficiency in processing applications, preparing the property, and aligning listings with tenant expectations.
Increased demand contributes to this accelerated cycle. As more individuals seek housing in the area, the competition for available units intensifies. Renters are more likely to act quickly, and owners are more likely to have multiple applicants in short timeframes. This rising pressure shortens the leasing timeline and increases responsiveness across all levels of the rental process. While this might suggest a strong and growing rental market, it also introduces challenges related to maintenance, scheduling, and screening that affect how sustainable the faster turnover pace becomes.
In this article, we break down the factors contributing to faster rental turnover in Roebuck, Alabama. The analysis begins with economic changes, including local employment and infrastructure developments, that influence tenant movement. It examines shifts in housing inventory, the preferences of renters relocating to the area, and how lease structures affect turnover. The article also details what types of features and pricing strategies are influencing leasing speed. Attention is given to the operational challenges faced by property owners and the specific practices Lease Birmingham uses to manage the increased pace of turnover. Each section provides clear examples and local context, offering a comprehensive view of how rising demand affects the rental timeline in Roebuck.
Economic Shifts Impacting Roebuck Rentals
Local Employment Drivers
Employment centers situated near Roebuck contribute directly to tenant activity and leasing cycles. The area benefits from its closeness to several economic hubs, including medical facilities, manufacturing zones, distribution corridors, and public-sector employment centers in and around eastern Birmingham. These employment sources are critical in sustaining a constant inflow of workers who often seek nearby housing rather than commuting long distances. Their decision to rent close to their workplace keeps demand high, particularly for properties with flexible lease terms or minimal upfront costs.
Industries that continue to drive this demand include healthcare, logistics, construction, and education. As new job openings are filled, especially those not requiring long-term relocation, the rental market becomes the primary housing solution for incoming workers. Roebuck sees considerable interest from contract employees, temporary staff, and younger workers just entering the workforce who prioritize rental housing over purchasing. These groups typically transition between roles or assignments quickly, which results in shorter stays and contributes to high turnover rates. Their need for accessible housing creates urgency in renting, reducing the time properties sit vacant.
Movement among residents is also influenced by the employment landscape’s seasonal and cyclical nature. Construction contracts, academic calendars, and healthcare staffing patterns bring waves of renters who align their housing needs with their work schedules. This regular ebb and flow of tenants require property readiness on short notice and the capacity to screen and lease efficiently. Landlords must be equipped to address shifts in demand tied directly to hiring patterns across these industries, especially during times of expansion or contract renewals within those employment sectors.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Infrastructure changes in and around Roebuck have altered how quickly renters decide on properties and how willing they are to move into the area. Roadway expansions, intersection upgrades, and connectivity enhancements have all contributed to making the neighborhood more accessible. Easier access to main corridors like I-59 and US-11 has reduced perceived commute times to nearby work zones. Renters prioritizing short travel distances are drawn to locations that allow them to reach work, retail, or services in under thirty minutes, and Roebuck’s improving road network supports that goal.
Public transportation upgrades have also played a role in increasing leasing activity. Routes that pass through Roebuck and connect it to central Birmingham and industrial areas make the neighborhood a viable option for those without personal vehicles. Bus service improvements and additional stops offer convenience that wasn’t available in past years. This level of accessibility widens the pool of potential tenants and places additional pressure on the availability of well-maintained, reasonably priced rentals. When transportation becomes less of a barrier, renters make decisions more quickly, often applying for properties within days of viewing.
Commute preferences remain a major factor in rental turnover. Tenants prioritize living where their daily routes are predictable and efficient. Proximity to employment zones, paired with road and transit enhancements, creates appeal for short-term and long-term renters alike. As more infrastructure projects are completed, new waves of renters enter the market, searching for properties aligned with their work and lifestyle priorities. Property owners operating in this environment must keep pace with leasing processes that accommodate quicker move-ins, driven in part by commuting advantages tied to Roebuck’s location and access.
Housing Inventory and Movement
Available Properties in Transition
Roebuck offers a range of rental property types, including single-family homes, small apartment complexes, and duplexes. The volume of these available units fluctuates regularly, shaped by both market activity and property maintenance schedules. Single-family rentals tend to dominate much of the landscape, while multi-unit buildings provide additional flexibility for residents seeking affordability or specific amenities. Turnover rates remain high across all property categories, particularly in older housing stock that is more frequently cycled through the rental pool due to periodic upgrades or ownership changes.
Patterns of turnover among property owners in Roebuck often reflect broader trends in neighborhood investment. Some owners choose to list properties temporarily while considering resale at a later date, leading to short-term rental offerings that are not always consistently available. Others manage portfolios that depend on quick transitions between tenants to maintain income flow, which results in routine listings of the same units throughout the year. This constant movement keeps the market fluid, allowing new renters to enter but also requiring landlords to be responsive in preparing units for re-occupancy.
Turnover is also influenced by how landlords handle lease expiration and property upkeep. Units in better condition or with recent improvements tend to rent more quickly and often have shorter vacancy periods. Landlords aware of this dynamic aim to complete repairs rapidly between tenants, ensuring minimal downtime. Properties without consistent maintenance or clear leasing terms tend to remain on the market longer, creating irregular patterns in inventory availability. These trends determine the pace of the rental cycle and influence how residents interact with the housing market in Roebuck.
Buyer Hesitation and Rental Preference
Many residents opt to rent in Roebuck due to uncertainty surrounding long-term financial commitment. This hesitation is often tied to economic instability, limited access to mortgage lending, or a desire for mobility. Renters in this category often prioritize flexibility over permanence, which makes renting a more viable and less restrictive option than purchasing. These decisions are rarely driven by a lack of interest in ownership but instead reflect cautious financial planning or a temporary stay in the area.
Short-term leases appeal to a specific profile of tenants who do not plan to stay in Roebuck permanently. These may include students, contract workers, individuals in transitional life phases such as divorce or job relocation, or retirees testing a new location before settling. They are less likely to invest in homeownership due to the limited duration of their stay. Landlords catering to this group frequently structure their rental offerings with six-month or month-to-month terms to accommodate fluctuating needs.
Other contributing factors include a lack of available homes for purchase at price points that align with resident income levels. This mismatch drives potential buyers into the rental market, where they can secure housing while continuing to evaluate their options. These renters may remain in the market longer than anticipated, leading to new leasing agreements over time as they delay purchasing decisions. This sustained demand places pressure on rental availability and reinforces the importance of maintaining units that can accommodate tenants seeking shorter commitments.
Shifts in Renter Demographics
Age and Lifestyle Segments
Younger renters and single professionals now make up a larger portion of the rental population in Roebuck. This demographic values affordability, access to main roads, and proximity to work and social hubs. They tend to rent smaller units that allow for mobility and financial flexibility. Most are not interested in homeownership yet and prefer housing that fits temporary life stages. One-bedroom apartments, studio units, and smaller single-family homes with low maintenance requirements tend to appeal to this segment. Their activity in the rental market increases the rate at which units change hands throughout the year.
The lifestyle preferences of single professionals also influence which properties are rented quickly. Private entries, on-site laundry, dedicated parking, and updated finishes are common demands. Many look for housing that supports a hybrid lifestyle—quiet enough for daily living, yet close enough to dining, retail, or nightlife areas to maintain convenience. They often rent on shorter leases or leave after a single term, which contributes to increased rental turnover. These tenants are more likely to move in response to job offers, lifestyle changes, or new social opportunities, creating a constant cycle of move-ins and move-outs.
Family renters approach the market with different needs. Larger floor plans, multiple bedrooms, and access to reliable schools and public services influence their housing decisions. Safety and long-term rental options matter more than modern finishes or commute times. These families are often looking for stability over style and tend to remain in a unit for longer periods once they’ve found the right fit. Still, their leasing activity peaks at specific times of the year, especially during school breaks, requiring properties to be prepared in advance to meet those seasonal changes in demand.
Relocation Trends Into Roebuck
Roebuck continues to attract renters from other neighborhoods throughout Birmingham. Individuals and families leave higher-cost areas like Avondale, Crestwood, and downtown Birmingham in search of more space, lower rent, and easier access to major roads. The neighborhood offers housing options that fit various budgets, making it a strong alternative for people priced out of other parts of the city. Tenants moving from these areas often prioritize function over location-based prestige, choosing homes that offer more room, outdoor space, or better parking.
Roebuck appeals to those who want to balance affordability with accessibility. Its location allows residents to reach multiple employment zones without the burden of high rent or lengthy commutes. People moving into the area often cite convenience as a deciding factor—whether that’s commuting to jobs in medical, education, or distribution sectors, or staying within driving distance of family support systems. These moves are often calculated decisions based on a clear trade-off between cost savings and acceptable commute times, with Roebuck offering that balance.
Many renters relocating to Roebuck are in transition. These transitions may involve divorce, retirement, career shifts, or temporary job assignments. This group seeks rentals that are move-in ready and allow for flexible lease lengths without extensive financial commitment. Properties that offer month-to-month or short-term options get more interest from this population. These residents view Roebuck as a practical location where they can stabilize during uncertain times, leading to consistent rental activity from people moving into the area on short notice.
Leasing Behavior and Preferences
Lease Term Patterns
Short-term lease options have become increasingly common in Roebuck’s rental landscape. These lease types appeal to tenants who prefer flexibility, including those with uncertain job arrangements or temporary housing needs. While long-term leases are still offered, demand for six-month and even month-to-month agreements has grown. This shift affects how often units become available throughout the year and contributes directly to higher rental turnover. Shorter commitments mean tenants exit more frequently, placing pressure on property owners to re-list and fill vacancies at a faster pace.
Renewal rates vary depending on tenant priorities and how well the rental aligns with their expectations. Renters satisfied with their unit’s location, condition, and cost are more inclined to renew, especially when they have families or stable employment nearby. However, renters who view their housing as temporary rarely seek renewals, even when satisfied with the property. Some tenants will move based solely on a better deal becoming available or personal lifestyle changes. Landlords encounter a mixed cycle of renewals and early terminations, both of which influence how properties must be marketed and managed.
The lease terms themselves often reflect an anticipation of short occupancy. Owners may build flexibility into agreements to accommodate early departures, such as clauses for job relocation or financial hardship. This approach helps reduce disputes and simplifies turnover processes. Renters seeking this level of adaptability often review lease agreements carefully before signing, and any lack of flexibility can deter them from committing. In a rental market as active as Roebuck, terms that are too rigid may result in longer vacancy periods, even when the unit is otherwise in demand.
Property Features in Demand
Renters in Roebuck consistently prioritize certain features when evaluating rental properties. Updated kitchens, in-unit laundry, and reliable HVAC systems are among the most frequently requested amenities. Outdoor space, especially in single-family rentals, is also highly valued. These preferences are not limited to luxury-seeking tenants; rather, they reflect baseline expectations for comfort and function. Units lacking these features may still be rented, but they tend to take longer to fill and often require price adjustments to remain competitive.
Specific upgrades can directly reduce vacancy duration. Modern finishes, energy-efficient appliances, and smart home integrations such as keyless entry or programmable thermostats attract attention from renters who expect a higher level of convenience. These features also signal that the property has been well maintained, increasing trust between the tenant and owner. When renters perceive that a unit is move-in ready with no major improvements needed, they are more likely to commit quickly, especially in competitive conditions.
Certain property conditions influence not just the speed of rental but also the type of tenant who applies. Properties with multiple bathrooms, covered parking, or extra storage space appeal to families and professionals who plan to stay beyond a single term. On the other hand, smaller units with minimal amenities often attract short-term renters or individuals transitioning between locations. Owners who align property features with tenant expectations see quicker turnover because the match between supply and demand is more precise, allowing rental decisions to happen with fewer delays.
Market Conditions Driving Quick Turnovers
Competitive Pricing Strategy
Rent pricing remains one of the strongest influences on how quickly rental units are occupied in Roebuck. When a property is priced competitively in relation to similar units in the area, prospective tenants respond faster. This is especially true for properties that fall within budget ranges commonly searched by younger renters, families on fixed incomes, and residents relocating for work. Even a modest rent adjustment can lead to a noticeable increase in inquiries and applications, shortening the time a property remains on the market. Property owners in Roebuck who closely track local pricing fluctuations often make quicker adjustments that align with renter expectations.
Rental pricing benchmarks vary by street, unit size, age of the property, and proximity to commercial corridors. A three-bedroom single-family home situated near schools or bus routes may command a higher price than a similar-sized property tucked away in a less accessible area. Properties with updated features tend to push toward the higher end of the range but only if the asking price reflects clear value to prospective tenants. Owners who ignore the pricing dynamics of nearby units risk extended vacancies or attracting unqualified applicants unable to meet the rent terms. Successful rent pricing strategies rely on continuous comparisons with similar offerings that are moving quickly in the market.
Tenants also use price as an immediate filter when deciding which listings to pursue. In markets where digital platforms dominate the search process, a property that appears overpriced—even marginally—can be overlooked. Some landlords include utilities or services in the rent to create more appealing all-in pricing, which simplifies comparisons and reduces friction during the decision-making process. Properties that combine competitive rent with perceived value tend to lease faster than those that are either underpriced due to poor condition or overpriced with no clear advantages. The effectiveness of pricing lies in its alignment with both local benchmarks and the condition of the unit offered.
Impact of Digital Listings
Digital platforms have become the dominant tool for advertising rental properties in Roebuck. Listings published on widely used rental sites, real estate marketplaces, and even social media channels determine the visibility and appeal of a property. Units that include clear photos, concise descriptions, and availability dates often receive the highest engagement. Renters scrolling through listings make split-second decisions about whether to inquire further, meaning presentation must be immediate and persuasive. Listings that fail to convey value visually or omit essential details often result in missed opportunities, no matter how competitively priced the property may be.
The speed at which listings are published also influences rental turnover. Property owners who can list units as soon as notice is given, rather than waiting until after the unit is vacant, create more time for tenant screening and property preparation. In an active rental market, delays in listing often mean losing prospective tenants to faster-moving competitors. Platforms that allow instant updates and real-time availability adjustments are used most effectively when listings are monitored and revised frequently. Digital exposure is not a one-time task; it requires constant oversight to reflect unit readiness, market shifts, and tenant response patterns.
Certain digital channels perform better in specific segments of the Roebuck market. Entry-level units aimed at younger renters perform well on mobile apps with user-friendly search tools, while larger family rentals gain more traction through regional real estate portals and community-based listings. Targeted advertising, such as promoting listings in local Facebook groups or neighborhood-specific apps, has also proven effective. These channels allow property owners to connect with tenants already interested in Roebuck, shortening the search process and reducing the time properties remain vacant. The combination of timing, platform selection, and listing quality determines the pace of rental turnover.
Challenges for Property Owners
Managing Maintenance with Turnover
Maintenance demands increase with each instance of tenant turnover, especially in a high-traffic rental environment. Property owners must coordinate cleaning, repairs, and inspections within tight windows to prepare units for immediate occupancy. The condition of a property between tenants directly affects whether it will rent quickly. Units that are not move-in ready on the day of listing can fall behind more competitive offerings. Owners must establish efficient cycles for identifying wear-and-tear, replacing damaged fixtures, and completing essential updates that uphold rental standards.
Readiness for showings requires more than basic cleaning. Carpets may need to be replaced, paint may need retouching, and appliances must be inspected for functionality. Delays in addressing these tasks lead to missed opportunities during peak demand periods. Some owners create internal schedules where maintenance crews begin work within 24 hours of notice to vacate, ensuring properties are back on the market within a narrow timeframe. Efficient repair routines include pre-inspections before lease expiration, allowing owners to pre-order supplies and schedule contractors in advance. This approach limits unexpected delays and keeps turnaround consistent.
Structured maintenance schedules serve as a tool to avoid extended vacancies. Systems that track service dates, material needs, and vendor availability help owners stay ahead of repair timelines. Common strategies include rotating inspections every six months and keeping a standing relationship with general contractors or a handyman for high-priority units. These methods reduce the chance of scrambling after a tenant exits, ensuring repairs are proactive rather than reactive. Fast transitions from one tenant to the next depend on this type of detailed planning, especially when competing for renters who make decisions quickly.
Screening and Onboarding Tenants Quickly
Speed in tenant placement must be matched by a methodical screening process to protect property value and reduce turnover risk. Owners face pressure to move quickly but cannot afford to skip steps that confirm tenant reliability. This balance starts with structured applications that capture complete financial and rental history, minimizing the need for follow-up communication. Screening tools that verify identity, creditworthiness, and prior rental behavior in a single workflow save time and reduce human error. The goal is to eliminate unnecessary delays without compromising on decision quality.
Fast onboarding begins with collecting the right information at the beginning. Digital applications, document upload features, and automated reference checks eliminate paper-based lag. Owners using integrated systems are able to complete screening within 24 to 48 hours. This efficiency becomes critical in Roebuck’s fast-paced rental activity, where strong applicants often apply to multiple properties at once. If the process drags, the best tenants secure other housing while slower landlords lose out. Maintaining access to current contact methods and accurate rental records further shortens decision windows.
Once approved, onboarding must also be streamlined. Sending digital lease agreements, offering electronic payment options for deposits, and scheduling move-ins remotely can cut days off the traditional process. Tenant orientation, key exchanges, and utility coordination should be automated wherever possible. Owners who manage onboarding without lag not only reduce vacancy days but also set the tone for clear communication and expectations. The ability to consistently execute this process helps retain tenants beyond the initial lease term, reducing future turnover and simplifying future leasing cycles.
The Role of Lease Birmingham in the Roebuck Rental Market
Process Optimization
Lease Birmingham applies structured systems to manage high volumes of rental activity with minimal delay. These systems coordinate each stage of the rental process, from listing preparation through tenant placement, using clearly defined workflows that support efficiency. When a property becomes available, every step—cleaning, inspection, photography, marketing, and screening—follows a timeline that minimizes lag between tenants. This sequencing allows for immediate action once a unit is vacated, reducing the likelihood of extended vacancy.
The tools used by Lease Birmingham include digital application platforms, online document handling, and automated screening systems. These tools remove the need for in-person document exchange, speeding up the entire intake and approval process. Listings are updated in real time, and incoming applications are processed using consistent screening criteria that reduce turnaround time. Maintenance updates and readiness reports are also integrated into the system, giving staff clear visibility into what needs to be completed before a property can be offered again. This setup ensures that available units are rarely delayed due to communication gaps or slow documentation.
Fast transitions between tenants require preparation ahead of time. Lease Birmingham tracks lease expirations and receives early notice of intent to vacate, triggering immediate readiness procedures. Photographs are updated, repairs are scheduled, and marketing begins before the unit is vacant. This timeline shortens the window between one lease ending and another beginning. By building operational readiness into every step, Lease Birmingham maintains consistent property activity in a rental market that demands speed.
Local Insight and Operational Support
Lease Birmingham operates with direct involvement in Roebuck’s rental activity. Knowledge of area-specific trends allows adjustments to rental strategies based on actual tenant behavior. Whether renters are moving due to school schedules, employment changes, or shifting household needs, Lease Birmingham responds by aligning property availability and marketing to match those trends. This local awareness results in fewer mismatches between what is listed and what tenants are looking for at any given time.
Support functions are built into the operational model used in Roebuck. These include preparation of lease documents, coordination of move-in logistics, and oversight of cleaning and repair vendors. Vendor partnerships are established with local providers to ensure reliable response times and minimize scheduling delays. Tenants receive clear move-in instructions, keys, and contact information in advance, which removes the common disruptions that delay occupancy. All tasks are executed using standard checklists that align with the expectations of the local rental audience.
By operating within Roebuck consistently, Lease Birmingham is able to identify shifts in tenant preferences and apply that insight immediately. Whether demand increases for short-term leases or larger family properties, listings are updated and marketed accordingly. This approach prevents vacancy periods from extending due to poor timing or misaligned offerings. Lease Birmingham remains responsive to the pace of rental movement in Roebuck by embedding local decision-making into daily operations and eliminating delays that reduce occupancy turnover.
Conclusion
Faster rental turnover in Roebuck results from a combination of economic pressure, changing tenant expectations, and localized mobility patterns. The area’s connection to employment centers and improved transportation options continues to attract renters seeking shorter commutes and flexible housing. Properties with features aligned to modern preferences—such as private amenities, digital access, and functional layouts—are more likely to rent quickly. At the same time, renters increasingly prioritize short-term lease options and responsive property readiness, which leads to a constant churn in tenant occupancy. Each of these factors contributes to a housing cycle that moves at a faster pace than in previous years.
These turnover patterns directly affect how rental activity plays out across the neighborhood. Owners are compelled to maintain properties in a constant state of readiness to match the expectations of incoming tenants. They must evaluate pricing with precision, respond to demand in real time, and adapt their practices to meet a tenant base that is both diverse and mobile. Screening processes, leasing timelines, and property marketing all require a level of urgency that reflects current market conditions. Tenants do not wait long before securing housing, and properties that are not aligned with demand lose visibility almost immediately.
The result is a rental environment where timing, presentation, and local knowledge determine how long a unit remains available. Quick turnovers are not just a reflection of market interest—they reveal how rental decisions are made and how quickly properties can respond. Roebuck’s rental landscape will continue to evolve as tenants seek out housing that meets immediate needs with minimal barriers. Property owners operating in the area must respond to these dynamics with precise timing, accurate pricing, and consistent property readiness to avoid extended vacancies.
Contact Lease Birmingham to manage your rental property with the speed, precision, and local expertise that Roebuck’s market demands.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Faster Rental Turnover is Driven by Rising Demand in Roebuck, Alabama
1. What types of employment centers are influencing rental demand in Roebuck?
Manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and public-sector job centers located in and around Birmingham continue to bring a steady flow of renters into Roebuck. These employment sources attract workers who prefer housing near job sites, creating consistent activity in the rental market.
2. How does transportation access impact rental behavior in Roebuck?
Improved roadways and expanded public transit routes have shortened commute times, making Roebuck more appealing to tenants who prioritize accessibility. Properties near transit lines or major roads tend to see faster turnover due to increased convenience for daily travel.
3. What rental property types are most commonly available in Roebuck?
Single-family homes, duplexes, and small apartment buildings make up the majority of Roebuck’s rental inventory. Availability changes frequently, with different types of units cycling in and out of the market based on repairs, lease terms, and ownership decisions.
4. Why are many Roebuck residents choosing to rent instead of buy?
Uncertainty about long-term financial commitments, difficulty securing mortgages, and the desire for mobility are key reasons renters opt against purchasing. These factors lead to increased demand for rentals offering short-term or flexible lease terms.
5. Which tenant groups are driving faster turnover in Roebuck?
Young professionals, students, contract workers, and individuals undergoing life transitions such as job relocation or divorce often pursue short-term leases. Their frequent movement between rentals significantly contributes to higher turnover.
6. What amenities do renters most often look for in Roebuck properties?
Updated interiors, in-unit laundry, outdoor space, and energy-efficient systems are among the most requested features. These amenities influence how quickly a unit rents and attract applicants seeking functional and modern housing.
7. How does rent pricing affect how long a property stays on the market?
Pricing aligned with local benchmarks increases inquiry volume and speeds up tenant placement. Even minor deviations from market expectations can result in reduced visibility or longer vacancy periods.
8. What digital platforms are most effective for listing Roebuck rentals?
Rental listing sites, local real estate platforms, and targeted social media channels are widely used by tenants searching in Roebuck. Properties with clear photos, accurate descriptions, and prompt updates tend to receive more inquiries and faster applications.
9. What maintenance practices help reduce delays between tenants?
Scheduled repairs, pre-move-out inspections, and pre-arranged vendor relationships ensure units are ready as soon as previous tenants leave. Property owners who use structured maintenance cycles often experience fewer delays.
10. What steps help accelerate tenant screening and onboarding?
Digital application tools, real-time background checks, and online lease signing processes shorten the placement timeline. Efficient screening combined with ready-to-execute onboarding procedures keeps the rental process moving without unnecessary gaps.
