DATE

03/01/2025

RentUTK

RentUTK is a student housing platform that connects UTK students with walkable rentals in high-demand neighborhoods near campus.

Student Housing

Local Platform

Services

Web design & Branding

Category

Real Estate

Client

RentUTK

Ultra Watch

Analysis - Performance and Responsiveness

RentUTK’s old site was slow, outdated, and not mobile-friendly. A modern student audience expects fast load times, clean navigation, and a mobile-first experience. Our rebuild focused on speed, responsiveness, and clear structure across all devices.

Performance

SPEED OPTIMIZATION

• Lazy Load & WebP Images: Faster load without sacrificing quality.
• Minified Code: Reduced page weight for better performance.
• CDN Integration: Global delivery for improved load time.
• Future-Proof Stack: Clean, scalable structure ready for more traffic.

Responsiveness

We designed for mobile first, knowing students primarily browse on phones. Layouts adapt across screen sizes using fluid grids, logical hierarchy, and touch-friendly spacing. Navigation and CTAs were simplified to reduce bounce and increase clarity.

Ultra Watch
Ultra Watch Zoom Shot

Problem - Site and Service Improvement

The original brand didn’t reflect student needs or local trust. The site created confusion for renters and property owners alike. A rebrand and rebuild were needed to clarify the experience and communicate trust from the first scroll.

Experience Rework

UX STRATEGY

• Refreshed Identity: Colors and typography inspired by UTK’s look and feel.
• Simplified User Paths: Clear separation between renters and owners.
• Emotional Design: Familiar visual cues and student-focused messaging.
• Streamlined Layout: Built for scannability and fast decisions.

Watch Pro

Solution - Communication and Deployment

The site was built as a launch-ready platform with flexibility to grow. From structure to visuals, the layout supports future listings, account systems, or dashboard features—without needing a full rebuild later.


Communication

STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT

We began with competitor research and layout sketches. Wireframes and annotated mockups helped clarify user flow early. The final build included a clean CMS structure, SEO-optimized layout, and a brand system designed to evolve as RentUTK scales.

How We Work?

Frequently

Asked Questions

Questions about fit, process, timelines, integrations, or ongoing support? Start here, then bring us the details of your workflow.

Questions about fit, process, timelines, integrations, or ongoing support? Start here, then bring us the details of your workflow.

What kinds of AI products does JD Media build?

How do you decide what to build first?

Can you work with our existing tools and data?

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What happens after launch?

How are projects scoped and priced?

What kinds of AI products does JD Media build?

How do you decide what to build first?

Can you work with our existing tools and data?

Do you use AI-assisted development?

What happens after launch?

How are projects scoped and priced?

Start a Conversation

Bring the problem.

We will shape the system.

From strategy and design through development, integration, launch, and iteration, JD Media stays accountable for the outcome.

Start a Conversation

Bring the problem.

We will shape the system.

From strategy and design through development, integration, launch, and iteration, JD Media stays accountable for the outcome.