Communication. The essence of every relationship – from family, friends, and neighbors to your colleagues, kid’s teachers, service persons, and well, everyone in your life. Did we mention tenants? The ability to communicate effectively is vital to success in every area of life. So, let’s discuss the art of communication. We use communication both to … Read More

2021 Has Arrived – Bringing Several Trends in the Rental Market Like many businesses, the property rental market was turned inside out by the pandemic. Both owners and tenants are waiting to see what 2021 will bring. One thing we can count on is “change.” For those of you who are wondering what the experts … Read More

Sure, like everyone who has invested in a rental property, you need to collect as high of rent as possible. On the other hand, maybe a better choice of words would be “to collect as high of rent as reasonable.” After all, you don’t want a potentially long-term, reliable renter to walk away because your … Read More

The challenge is on: Finding a quality tenant who will pay the rent on time and take care of your property. While some view this process as a race to the finish line, that may not be the wisest approach. Sure, you want to secure a renter in a timely fashion to keep your rental property profitable. But … Read More

When you and your tenant signed the lease agreement, and they moved into your rental property, there was a certain amount of trepidation on both sides. They wondered how approachable and reliable you would be when there were maintenance issues or disruptive neighbors, etc. They knew inspections were part of the scene, but frankly, they were hoping you … Read More

It’s time for the annual debate – should landlords give holiday gifts to their tenants. While some consider it completely unnecessary – this is a business, after all, and gifts are for family and friends, others consider it an essential pillar of good business. They claim it is no different than when a business hosts a customer appreciation day.   There … Read More

Being a landlord involves two aspects—the practical business side and the “people“ component. Each plays a vital role in the success of any real estate rental venture. The business aspect requires what are often labeled as “hard“ skills, while the people side uses what are commonly referred to as “soft“ skills. Neither skillset can accomplish the task solo.     So, let‘s tackle the “hard“ skills first, with three crucial must-haves for property management success.    Technical property know-how  While it is unnecessary to be a general contractor, being … Read More

“Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.”                                                                      – Melody Beattie 2020 has … Read More

The results of our recent survey about the economy and real estate market  reflect uncertainty amongst landlords and investors during an election year and the Covid-19 pandemic. Although 33% of respondents anticipated a “strong” economy over the next 12 month, 67% felt that the economy would be “fair or weak”.  Ratings of “very strong” or … Read More