So you've got a great property to list on Domu, but you're staring at those empty description fields wondering how to make your listing shine. Enter AI—your new secret weapon for creating attention-grabbing property descriptions that actually get clicks. Here's how to use these tools the right way (without sounding like a robot wrote your listing).
The AI Toolbox: What Works for Real Estate
Each AI writing tool brings something different to the table for rental listings. Here's what we've discovered works best:
- ChatGPT (free to start): Great for custom prompts and conversational tone. Ideal for writing detailed, personalized descriptions. Needs more hands-on editing.
- Jasper (paid): Offers real estate templates and faster output. Good for consistent branding but can feel formulaic.
- Copy.ai (free & paid): Easy to use, with solid templates for listing and marketing copy. Tends to be more salesy and less specific.
- Claude.ai (free & paid): Natural, structured tone. Handles longer inputs well—great for multi-unit listings or brochure-style writeups.
Best for listing descriptions: ChatGPT, due to its flexibility and ability to adapt to your tone and property details.
Best for SEO/blog content: Jasper, thanks to built-in optimization tools.
The catch is that most AI tools will write like they're selling a luxury penthouse, even when you're listing a cozy studio. That's why you'll need to:
- Give clear instructions about your property's actual features
- Specify a conversational, honest tone
- Edit the final product to add that human touch
AI can be a huge help—but it’s your knowledge that makes the listing truly stand out.
Field by Field: Making AI Work for Your Listing
Domu gives you five description fields to work with, and each serves a different purpose. Here's how to use AI effectively for each one:
- Unique Features (120-150 characters): This is your headline act! Ask AI to create a punchy opener highlighting your property's #1 selling point. Something like: "Sun-soaked corner unit with brand-new kitchen and private balcony overlooking Wicker Park." AI excels at creating these concise hooks.
- Favorite Interior Features (200-250 characters): AI can help organize your bullet points in order of appeal. Start with: "Tell me the most appealing way to describe these interior features in order of importance..." and list the specs. Just remember to fact-check—AI might call your kitchen "gourmet" when it's really just "updated."
- Best Building Amenities (200-250 characters): For shared spaces, AI can help prioritize what renters care about most. Security features, laundry access, and package receiving typically rank higher than "charming vintage hallways." Let AI help structure this information logically.
- Neighborhood Highlights (200-250 characters): This is where you should be most cautious with AI. It might tell you Lincoln Square has "world-class shopping" when locals know it's really about the German food and cozy vibe. Use AI to structure this section, but add your local knowledge.
- Why Call It Home (100-150 characters): Ask AI to create a warm, inviting conclusion that ties together the best feature with the feeling of living there. Keep it short and authentic: "Enjoy sunset views from your private balcony in this quiet, family-filled corner of Logan Square."
Writing a Smart AI Prompt
If you want strong AI output, your prompt matters. Let’s say you’re listing a 2-bed, 1-bath unit in Lincoln Park with hardwood floors and a private balcony.
Try prompting: “Write a 200-character apartment listing in a friendly tone, highlighting a private balcony, hardwood floors, and proximity to the Brown Line in Lincoln Park.”
Compare the results:
- ❌ Too vague: “Charming apartment in a great area!”
- ✅ Better: “Bright 2BR in Lincoln Park with private balcony, hardwood floors, and 3-minute walk to the Brown Line.”
Be specific, give context, and always fact-check what comes back.
How Much Is Too Much?
Ever notice how AI loves to ramble? While Domu gives you character limits, that doesn't mean you need to use every last one. Here's a quick rule of thumb: if someone can't skim your description in 30 seconds, it's too long.
The best AI-assisted listings are:
- Scannable (using bullet points where appropriate)
- Focused on 3-5 standout features
- Free of generic fluff ("This won't last long!")
Keep it short, clear, and focused—because in a city full of listings, the ones that get noticed are the ones that respect your reader’s time.
Highlight This, Not That
AI tools tend to emphasize everything equally—but not all features deserve the spotlight.
Always Highlight:
- Recently renovated anything
- In-unit laundry (Chicago renters' most-searched amenity)
- Outdoor space (balconies, patios, roof access)
- Included parking or pet-friendly policies
Don't Emphasize:
- Small square footage (AI will call it "cozy" or "efficient"—just be honest)
- "Walking distance" (specify actual blocks or minutes)
- Generic descriptions ("beautiful views"—of what exactly?)
Make every word earn its spot.
The Human Touch: When to Override AI
While AI can give you a solid foundation, there are times when you should definitely step in:
Use AI For:
- Reframing awkward features positively
- Finding fresh alternatives to overused terms
- Creating consistent structure across multiple listings
Add Your Human Touch For:
- Neighborhood-specific knowledge (the locals' favorite coffee shop)
- Accurate walking times to transportation
- The actual vibe of your building (AI doesn't know if it's party-central or library-quiet)
AI can write the words, but only you can tell the story that makes someone want to live there.
The Bottom Line
AI is the assistant, not the author of your perfect listing. The best approach comes from using AI to create a solid framework, then customize it with your actual knowledge of the property. Your future tenants will appreciate descriptions that match what they actually see during viewings.
If you’re thinking about skipping the edits and just using AI, chances are your competitors are too. That’s exactly why taking a few extra minutes to refine your copy can make your listing the one that stands out.
