As of December 30th, 2023, Source of Income will now be a protected class in Tempe, Arizona joining the City of Phoenix and the City of Tucson.  This means that a Tempe property owner cannot have blanket prohibitions against residents based solely upon where their funds for rent come from, such as Section 8 or … Read More

From the initial application to the move-out walkthrough, a landlord’s ability to communicate well with renters greatly influences a successful tenancy. But what if an applicant speaks a different language? How can a landlord and tenant agree on rental terms, resolve maintenance issues, and share concerns or changes if they can’t understand each other? Entering … Read More

Affordable housing should provide safe living spaces for people with limited income. Low-income accommodations are always in demand, especially in an economy where costs are rising, and incomes are struggling to keep up. Owning a property dedicated to low-income housing can benefit your real estate business and the surrounding community. But what do landlords considering … Read More

Your rental unit is pristine, the price is fair, and you offer the latest amenities. There’s only one problem: the neighbors. Potential tenants often consider the community’s general “feel” in addition to the rental unit’s specifications. A neighbor who throws disruptive parties, owns a ferocious dog, or neglects his lawn can drag down a whole … Read More

A lease agreement is critical to any landlord’s rental property investment. It entitles a tenant to pay a fee for inhabiting a unit while defining each party’s rights and obligations. Beyond being a mere formality, a lease agreement is a binding contract that protects both landlord and tenant when questions arise, or something goes wrong.  … Read More

For many people, taking a dip in a pool is the ideal way to enjoy hot, sunny weather. Whether for relaxation, exercise, or fun, spending time in the water is a luxury many homeowners and renters seek. Consequently, a property with a pool can be a profitable investment, but there are downsides, as well. The … Read More

Bedbugs. The very word produces a shudder in any homeowner, landlord, or tenant. Although they don’t carry diseases, bedbugs are an incredible nuisance. They’re hard to spot and even harder to get rid of. Since they’re small and hardy, people can unwittingly transfer bedbugs via bedding, luggage, or clothing. And once they’ve entered a property, … Read More

The Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) originated under the Housing Act 1937. It helps low-income families, the elderly, and disabled persons find housing in the private market by providing rent payment assistance. Participants can select safe, sanitary housing in single-family homes, townhouses, or apartments.    So, how do landlords join this program, and what are … Read More

When a tenant moves out, preparing for the next renter takes extra effort. Repairs, maintenance, and cleaning are all part of a landlord’s turnover routine. But the situation becomes more complicated when the previous tenant leaves belongings behind. Should you return the abandoned property? Can you throw it out or keep it? Read on for … Read More