Property Management Insights

Who should handles lawn care? Over the years I have had the tenant take care of the yard ... but! Tenants don't do a grood job if they do it at all. Recently, I have had a change of plans. I'm now handles the lawn care maintenant and charging the tenant extra or it is inc...

If you are self managing your rental property, performing periodic drive-bys are important. Two to three times per year, get in your car and drive by the property and simply take a photo of the home from your car. Do not get out and walk around the home.  If the grass is too...

SELF-SHOWING LOCK BOXES. Should you use them?Nothing is more aggravating then traveling to your rental for a showing only to have the potential tenant NOT show up or even call you.New technology has brought SELF-SHOWING LOCK BOXES to the market where tenants can make their own ar...

How much should you expect to pay for annual repairs, maintenance, upkeep, taxes, and insurance on your rental?This is a tough question but there are ways to estimate how much you should set aside. Here are four methods – any one of them would work as a good estimate.Square...

Tip #20: It is really risky managing a property without knowing what the laws are that govern tenancy. Every state is different - some are move tenant friendly and structure laws accordingly. When managing your rental, don't assume anything. Make sure you consult the laws and...

Tip #18: Pre-screen before showing your property. Once your property has been listed, you'll start to receive tons of calls from potential tenants. Before you schedule a time to show your property, ask your inquirer questions to determine if they even qualify. Ask them: why a...

Fences are a plus! If you are debating whether or not to install a backyard fence, do it. You probably won't get more rent, but a fenced backyard attracts so many more tenants, even if you don’t permit pets. Fences give parents a sense of security and privacy for their ...

Train your tenants to be great tenants. Great tenants are hard to find so it’s up to you to make sure tenants know the rules and consequences. No matter how small a rule is, include it somewhere in the lease. When your tenant breaks a rule, enact punishment, which should al...

Toilet clogs are one of the most common repair calls made by tenants. Be sure that your lease clearly outlines what IS/NOT permitted to be flushed, ie no diapers, paper towels, or baby wipes. Clearly spell out that if the Tenant causes the clog, they are responsible for the costs...

Treat your rental like a business - because it is. Even if you only have one property, act like you are managing many. Use purchased leases so you are appropriately protected, act professional in front of your tenants and prospective tenants, maintain accurate books, put processe...