About a dozen years ago, my realtor and I got a strange request for a lease that we were signing. Our new tenants, as part of the lease agreement, wanted a new microwave. That's it, just the new microwave. They would supply the microwave, and leave it with the property when they moved out, but … Continue reading People you’ll meet as a property manager: The Perfectionist
The best way to protect your rental business — and yourself
It's a good idea to think about how to protect yourself and your business from legal issues that, however rare, may arise. Here in the United States, the LLC (Limited Liability Corporation) is considered the gold standard. The idea behind the LLC structure is that you are legally separated from your business. If you, for … Continue reading The best way to protect your rental business — and yourself
Running your rental business: An example of a Tenant Selection Criteria letter
I recommended setting up tenant selection criteria on my last blog (Running your rental business: Use established guidelines to clear potential tenants and avoid legal problems). I recommend doing this for several reasons: It helps you focus on what kind of renter you are looking for, It will let the prospective tenant know what is … Continue reading Running your rental business: An example of a Tenant Selection Criteria letter
Running your rental business: Use established guidelines to clear potential tenants and avoid legal problems
Having an established list of criteria for each rental property/address will not only help you narrow your search for the perfect renter, but also will help protect you from legal issues from a prospective tenant who feels that you turned them down unlawfully. So how do you go about creating such a list, and what … Continue reading Running your rental business: Use established guidelines to clear potential tenants and avoid legal problems
Starting and running your rental business: another insurance mistake to avoid
I have an acquaintance that I'll call "George". George was relocated and decided to rent out his property rather than sell. He diligently called his insurance company and purchased renters insurance, signed the paperwork, paid every year, and didn't give it another thought. About now alarm bells should be going off in your head. Why? … Continue reading Starting and running your rental business: another insurance mistake to avoid
Running your rental business: Steps to take when your tenants want to leave early
Although you and your tenants have signed a contract, the sad truth is that you really can't keep them there if they choose to leave. But there are several steps that you can take to make the situation go smoothly, and even turn into a positive for you! I know that your first instinct will … Continue reading Running your rental business: Steps to take when your tenants want to leave early
Tricks of the trade: Painting advice from a property manager
This week, as I've been painting two houses that are turning over, it's occurred to me that I've picked up a few good pointers (many specific to being a landlord) that I'm happy to share: Use the same paint color (including trim) on all your properties. This will save time and many a headache! Of … Continue reading Tricks of the trade: Painting advice from a property manager
Running your rental business: What should you do when tenants want to renew, but only for a lower rent?
As a landlord, at some point you'll be faced with this decision: Your tenants want to extend their lease for another year, but only at a lower price. There are several important considerations to help guide you through this decision. The first question I have for you may surprise you, but has played an important … Continue reading Running your rental business: What should you do when tenants want to renew, but only for a lower rent?
Starting your rental business: Know the difference between active and passive income
Of course you're becoming a landlord to make money, but part of your business's success comes at tax time. How you're taxed -- as active or passive income -- makes a difference to your bottom line. In future blogs, I'll discuss how to determine if you qualify for active/material participation, and the advantages of either … Continue reading Starting your rental business: Know the difference between active and passive income
The Landlord List: Information to leave with your tenants
When you are checking in your renters, they will be overwhelmed with information from you, in addition to all the stress of moving. Even if you go through these items when you meet with them, leaving printouts of instructions will be invaluable to them. Plus, if they know how to take care of your property, … Continue reading The Landlord List: Information to leave with your tenants
