Category: Landlord Education

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.  …

Continue reading “Avoiding Common Lease Agreement Mistakes”

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 …

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Every landlord quickly learns that real estate investment involves many financial considerations. Whether you’re considering a new investment, comparing properties, preparing taxes, or determining rent increases, knowing financial terms and equations is critical. Fortunately, this book can help!   In 50 Real Estate Investing Calculations: Cash Flow, IRR, Value, Profit, Equity, Income, ROI, Depreciation, More, author …

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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, …

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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 …

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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 …

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An investor finds an ideal location in their search for a rental property, but there’s one complication: tenants already live there. Their lease will continue beyond the purchase unless the rental agreement specifies otherwise or the sale is part of a foreclosure. So, if the sale goes through, the current tenants will likely pass to …

Continue reading “4 Tips for Buying a Property with Existing Tenants”

Owning a vacation rental property can be a profitable venture, especially in popular tourist destinations. However, as some markets have become saturated with short-term rentals, and the needs of travelers are changing, many property owners are finding that converting their vacation rental into a long-term rental can yield several advantages. Steady, Predictable Income One of …

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Anyone who owns a property they’d rather not sell—whether from a move, an inheritance, or other circumstances—may wonder if he should become a landlord. The decision involves many considerations, and authors Attorney Janet Portman, Ilona Bray, J.D., and Marcia Stewart offer valuable guidance. Their book, First-Time Landlord: Your Guide to Renting Out a Single-Family Home, …

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As a landlord, your rental property is an essential component of your business and income. Naturally, you want to protect that investment and ensure your tenants take care of the property. But sometimes, it’s hard to distinguish between a conscientious landlord and a meddling one. How can a property owner avoid crossing that line?   While …

Continue reading “When (and Why) Landlords Can Perform Inspections”