Is Your Rental Property A Smart Home?

According to TownSteel, 2020 found 40% of Americans are implementing smart home devices, and more than 60% wanted to expand their current setup. This desire for smart connection is not limited to homeowners. Smart home features that help lower their utilities, increase their security, and make life more convenient are a big draw for tenants. They want the option to control … Read More

When Tenants Leave Personal Property Behind

It’s one of the downsides to owning rental properties. Sometimes tenants move out without cleaning out. Of course, you want to have the residence in tip-top shape and rented to a new tenant as soon as possible. So, what do you do with all the stuff?  Multiple Choice Pop Quiz:  A. It’s all junk – take it … Read More

Renter’s Insurance: Yay or Nay?

Of course, you have your rental property covered on your homeowner’s insurance policy. That’s a given. But should tenants also carry renter’s insurance?  While many tenants and even a few landlords believe that the homeowner’s policy also covers the tenant’s personal possessions, that is not the case. Unfortunately, this fact often becomes painfully clear only after a mishap or disaster produces a claim that will not … Read More

CDC Issues New Eviction Moratorium

 Late yesterday (August 3, 2021), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) issued a new eviction moratorium effective immediately and running through October 3, 2021.  Although this is a new moratorium, it basically matches the previously moratoriums with a small change regarding the spread of COVID-19 within counties. It applies to those counties that are considered … Read More

Should Landlords Invest in a Storage Shed? Yes or No…

So, you just received an email from your tenant. He is renting your single-family unit and plans to stay but wants more storage space for lawn care items, outdoor furniture, and toys. Should you accommodate your tenant? Does this mean you can increase the rent? What if you install it, and then they move out – leaving it full of junk? … Read More

5 Tips to Encourage Tenants to Renew Their Lease 

If a tenant pays the rent on time, takes care of the property, obeys the rules, and adheres to the lease agreement, of course, you want that tenant to stay long-term. It’s a no-brainer. After all, only occupied rental units make money, and finding new tenants costs time and money while creating a lot of hassle … Read More

Summertime Safety and Your Tenants

July is in full swing, and that means fun-in-the-sun season. Your tenants are flocking outside to enjoy the weather, cook up tasty meals in the backyard, and relax with family and friends around the pool.    But all this summertime fun can lead to an increase in personal injuries. Tenants rightfully expect that their safety will … Read More

Book Review: Investing in Rental Properties for Beginners by Lisa Phillips

As the title points out, this book is written for beginners. According to Lisa Phillips herself, her target audience is “regular, average people who want to know how they can find financial security through real estate investing.” Phillips also says this book “is for people who are interested in making money in a way that gives back.”    Having … Read More

Going Green as a Rental Property Owner

Of course, the environment is on your radar. You want to be eco-friendly, and you believe in sustainable living, but how does that apply to your rental properties? Here are some tips to be eco-responsible without wiping out your income.  Energy Efficiency: Of course, this will have more of an impact if you pay the utilities, but there are advantages even if … Read More