Protect Your Investment - Part Two

 Protect Your Investment: When to Have the Roof Inspected - Pt 2

[Continued from Part 1]

 

5. If There are Snow, Moss, or Leaf Piles on Your Roof

Any time there are damp piles on your roof, this is cause for concern. Call for roof cleaning and/or a roof inspection if you see piles of snow that don't move, piles of leaves that seem to form a damp home, or moss growing on your roof. All can either create or indicate a dangerous and roof-damaging level of trapped moisture. They will need to be cleared away and the roof underneath should be inspected.

Tenants often have little to no control over whether leaves pile on the roof, and it takes a special tool just to sweep them off. Scheduling roof care in the fall, or whenever you notice discoloration from rooftop growth, can save your roof early.  

 

6. If Your Attic is Damp and Other Signs of a Roof Leak

Signs of a leak from your roof are always cause for a roof inspection. Ask your tenants to watch for water pooling in ceilings, the sight of damp running down walls, or the smell of mold in hidden places. During your twice yearly inspection, visit each attic and check to see if the beams are rotting with moisture or if the underlayment is damp. If any of these signs appear, schedule a roof inspection.

 

7. If Your Chimney or Roof Vents are Leaking

Rental homes with a fireplace and chimney are extremely appealing, whether the climate is warm or cold. But any features that interrupt the shingles on your roof can lead to a leak due to flashing and connection flaws.

Sometimes, the shingles are fine but the roof features may show signs of leaking. Call for a roof inspection if your tenants see that is water running down the inside or outside of your chimney, vents, and other features that extend out through a home's roof surface.

 

8. If Your Gutters Appear Damaged

Ask your tenants to keep an eye on the gutters and to call if they notice any damage or improper runoff. Your gutters are part of your roof system. If a bad storm or a mischievous animal has caused your gutters to come apart from the roof or show other signs of damage, this can cause real damage. Gutters that rip away from the house will damage the roof, while gutters that aren't doing their job can lead to water damage to the outer layers of the house. If you notice or your tenants report gutter damage, roofers can inspect the situation and conduct repairs that keep your roof system intact.

 

9. If You Notice Soft or Dark Spots on the Shingles

If you can see dark spots on your roof that don't coincide with shadows, consider calling a roof inspector. While most people will not notice these details, anyone who goes on the roof might. If your tenants climb up to retrieve a lost ball or to watch fireworks, ask them to report any areas of the roof that appear soft or damaged. Soft or spongy shingles could be losing integrity.

 

10. If the Roof Starts to Sag

Lastly, keep an eye on your roof's ridgeline and flat planes. These are created by the structure beneath the shingle layer including the beams and underlayment.

Watch out for any roof that shows signs of sagging along the planes or buckling at the ridges. Sagging roofs often indicate that the beams and underlayment have been moisture damaged and begun to rot. A free roof inspection will tell you just how urgent your next roof installation will be.

 

Take Care of Your Investments with Free Roof Inspections

Most local roofers offer free inspections with the understanding that if an issue is found, they will be your first choice for repairs. This means it costs you nothing but a small amount of time to remain vigilant and take good care of the roof for each of your rental properties. Your tenants will appreciate that you are literally caring for the roof over their heads out of concern for their health and safety, while proper roof care will ensure the long-term quality and value of your properties.

Of course, keeping track of the rooftops of every one of your rental homes can be a big task. If you're ready to leave it to the pros, contact us today to discuss our property management services.

Protect Your Investment - Part One

 Protect Your Investment: When to Have the Roof Inspected - Pt 1

Protect Your Investment: When to Have the Roof Inspected

Real estate is a long-term investment. Being a landlord is an opportunity to both make income from your properties and allow the value of each property to appreciate over time. However, without regular maintenance, even the finest house can lose value by falling into disrepair. A reoutine maintenance schedule is the best way to protect your investment. However, one of the most commonly overlooked items on a rental home's maintenance checklist is roof care.  

Roof inspections should be a normal part of any home maintenance routine. Because most neighborhood roofers offer free roof inspections and estimates, it makes good sense to have each rental home's roof inspected any time there are signs of trouble or an opportunity to detect damage before a problem develops. But when is the right time to have your roof inspected?

Let's go through all the best times to call for a free roof estimate to protect your tenants and your long-term investments.

 

1. Once a Year, Whether You Need It Or Not

Every home should have a roof inspection once a year, ideally immediately after the harshest weather of the year. This will give you an opportunity to catch any recent roof damage as early as possible. Roof damage can also accumulate slowly from a small issue into a larger one over time. Regular roof inspections can prevent you from missing something important - so that repairs can happen before there's a costly leak or structural attic damage to your home.

It is reccomended to schedule roof inspection at least once a year, whether the home appears to need it or not. This also gives you a chance to get a clear estimate of the roof's age, condition, and proximity to the next roof replacement.

 

2. If Your Roof Looks Ragged from a Distance

When it comes to roofing, "out of sight, out of mind" creates a commonly overlooked problem. However, your eyes can tell you if the roof is taking damage if you look at the roof's surface from a short distance.

Take a step out to the curb and look up at your roof. If it looks like all one color and texture, you're in good shape. However, if the roof looks "ragged", rough or apparently missing patches, call your roofer. This can mean you have numerous dangerous or damaged shingles and it's time for an inspection.

 

3. Before Storm Season or the First Snow

Every region has a unique storm season. Try to book a roof inspection before the first big seasonal storm and/or the first winter snowfall. Seasonal storms can be very hard on rooftops, especially the shingles. Let your tenants know that, for their safety, you would like to book a roof inspection before the storms hit to ensure the home is in the best condition possible. This will ensure that your tenants are protected and your roof is at it's most durable when the seasonal storms or heavy snows blow through.

 

4. After Every Major Storm

Major storms with strong winds fast enough to tear branches off of trees can also tear shingles off your roof. If your tenants hear a branch hit your roof - or even if no major damage is done - it's best to have a roof inspection after each storm to make sure that you won't discover a new leak the next time it rains. Quick shingle repair and replacement can have your roof back to peak condition in time for the next storm of the season.

Keep an eye on the weather. Alert your tenants after any major storms and schedule a roof inspection to ensure that they and the house are safe.

 

[Continued in Part 2]

Do's and Don'ts of Property Flipping

 he Do's and Don'ts of Property Flipping: How to Avoid the Red Flags That Turn Off Buyers

As a real estate investor or residential contractor, flipping a property can be lucrative. However, avoiding cutting corners or rushing the renovation process is crucial to maximizing profits. Hasty flips can often be identified by certain signs that turn off prospective buyers, and it is important to be aware of these signs to avoid making costly mistakes.

Lack of Attention to Detail

One sign of a hasty flip is a lack of attention to detail. While it may be tempting to focus on high-impact renovations, such as a new kitchen or bathroom, it is important not to overlook small details. It includes touch-ups on paint, fixing broken door knobs, and replacing outdated light fixtures. Neglecting these small details can give the impression that the renovation was rushed or not done to the highest standards.

Lack of Proper Permits and Inspections

Another sign of a hasty flip is a lack of proper permits and inspections. It is important to obtain all necessary permits and licenses and have the property inspected by a professional to ensure that it is safe and up to code. Skipping these steps can lead to costly fines or legal problems.

Ineffectively Completed Renovations

Poorly executed renovations are another red flag for prospective buyers. It can include shoddy craftsmanship, mismatched finishes, or unfinished projects. It is important to hire reputable contractors and ensure the renovation is done to a high standard, as poor-quality work can turn off buyers and decrease the property's value.

Lack of Curb Appeal

A lack of curb appeal is another sign of a hasty flip. While the property's interior is important, the exterior is the first thing buyers see and can be a deciding factor in whether they take a closer look. Pay attention to the landscaping, paint, and overall appearance of the exterior to make a good first impression.

Lack of Staging

Finally, a lack of staging can also signify a hasty flip. Staging a property can help buyers visualize themselves living in the space and make it easier for them to see the property's full potential. By neglecting to stage the property, it can be difficult for buyers to envision themselves living there and can decrease the property's appeal.

Conclusion

By avoiding these signs of a hasty flip, investors and contractors can improve properties efficiently and effectively to maximize profits. Attention to detail, proper permits and inspections, high-quality renovations, curb appeal, and staging can all help to increase the appeal of a flipped property and ensure that it is attractive to prospective buyers.

Are you a residential contractor or real estate investor looking to flip a property? Avoid the pitfalls of a hasty flip with the help of Leaf Management and Funding. Our team has extensive experience in rehabbing and managing properties, and we offer private financing options to help you get the job done right. Contact Leaf Management and Funding today to learn more about how we can help you succeed in property flipping.

House Warranty - Yes or no?

 Deciding on a Home Warranty for Your Rental Investment: All You Need to Know

A home warranty is a type of insurance policy that covers the repair or replacement of various systems and appliances in a home. These include heating and cooling systems, plumbing, electrical, and major appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines. A home warranty differs from homeowners insurance, which covers damage to a home from events such as fires or storms. In this guide we will look at home warranties, their pros and cons and some guiding tips when choosing a home warranty.

Benefits of Home Warranties

• For rental property owners, a home warranty can offer several benefits. One of the main advantages is that it can provide peace of mind. Owning a rental property can be stressful, especially if you have to deal with sudden emergencies or unexpected repairs. A home warranty can help alleviate some of this stress by providing a way to quickly and easily make repairs without worrying about finding a reputable contractor or paying out of pocket.
• Another benefit of a home warranty for rental property owners is that it can help to minimize costs. When a major appliance or system breaks down, the cost of repair or replacement can be significant. A home warranty can help to reduce these costs by providing coverage for a wide range of items. This can be especially helpful if you have multiple rental properties and need to budget for unexpected expenses.

Drawbacks of Home Warranties

• One potential drawback of a home warranty for rental property owners is the cost. These policies can be expensive, especially if you have multiple rental properties. It is important to carefully consider whether the cost of a home warranty is worth the potential benefits.
• Another potential concern is that home warranties may not cover everything. It is important to carefully review the terms of a home warranty to understand what is covered and what is not. Some home warranties may have exclusions or limitations on certain types of repairs or appliances.

Tips to Consider When Deciding on a Home Warranty.

Despite these potential drawbacks, a home warranty can be a valuable tool for rental property owners who want to minimize stress and sudden emergencies. To find the right home warranty for their needs, rental property owners should consider the following tips:

1. Research different home warranty companies and compare their policies and coverage.
2. Carefully review the terms and exclusions of each policy to understand what is covered.
3. Consider the home warranty cost and whether it is worth the potential benefits.
4. Read online reviews and ask for recommendations from other rental property owners.

Final Thoughts

Overall, a home warranty can be a valuable tool for rental property owners looking to minimize stress and sudden emergencies. However, it is important to carefully consider the costs and exclusions of a home warranty and determine whether it is worth the investment for your specific rental property

Leaf Management Financing Corporation can help with financing a home warranty for your rental investment property. They offer a range of financing options to help you manage the costs of owning and maintaining a rental property. By working with Leaf Management, you are sure that you have access to the financial resources you need to keep your rental property in good condition. Reach out to us and get a unique financial plan created for you.

Property Management Red Flags

 Property Management Red Flags: Here are 7 Tips on How to Identify and Address Issues with Your Current Service

Are you worried that your current property manager isn't up to par? It can be frustrating and stressful to have concerns about the management of your rental property, but it's essential to address any issues promptly in order to protect your investment. 

Here are seven key signs that your property manager may not be doing a good job.

Lack of communication

If you're finding it difficult to get in touch with your property manager or receive timely responses to your inquiries, this could be a sign that they are not fulfilling their communication obligations. Effective communication is crucial for addressing tenant concerns, maintaining the property, and ensuring the smooth operation of your rental.

High Tenant Turnover

High tenant turnover can be a red flag that your property manager is not effectively addressing tenant concerns or properly maintaining the property. This can lead to lost income and added costs associated with finding and screening new tenants.

Unresponsive to Maintenance Requests

Timely maintenance is essential for maintaining the value and appeal of your rental property. If your property manager ignores maintenance requests or takes an unreasonable amount of time to address them, this could indicate a lack of attention to their responsibilities.

Unsatisfactory Financial Reporting

As a property owner, you have a right to receive regular and accurate financial reports on the performance of your rental property. If you're not receiving these reports of unprofessional behavior: A property manager should conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times. If you notice unprofessional behavior, such as rudeness or inconsistency, it could signify that they are not taking their responsibilities seriously.

Poor Marketing

A good property manager should be proactive in marketing your rental property to attract potential tenants. If you're noticing a lack of effort in this area or if your property is consistently vacant, it could be a sign that your property manager is not effectively filling vacancies.

Lack of Transparency

A property manager should be transparent in their dealings with you and provide clear and concise information about the operation of your rental property. If you're noticing a lack of transparency or if you're having difficulty getting answers to your questions, it could be a sign that your property manager is not being fully forthright with you. If you notice discrepancies in the information provided, it could be a sign that your property manager is not effectively managing the financial aspects of your property.

Legal Issues

A competent property manager should be proactive in ensuring that all relevant laws and regulations are being followed. If you're experiencing legal issues, such as disputes with tenants or fair housing violations, it could be a sign that your property manager is not effectively handling legal matters.

Conclusion

If you're experiencing any of the issues outlined above with your current property manager, it's important to take action in order to protect your investment. One solution is to consider outsourcing your property management to a reliable and professional company.

At Leaf Management, we understand the importance of effective property management in maximizing the financial performance of your rental property. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you take your property management to the next level.

Landlord to Homeowner

From Landlord to Homeowner: A Guide to Returning to Your Rental Property

Are you tired of being a landlord and ready to move back into your rental property? Whether you're downsizing, looking to save money, or simply miss living in your old home, transitioning a rental property back into a primary residence can be a daunting task. However, with a little planning and preparation, you can turn your rental property back into a comfortable, welcoming home.

Perform Maintenance and Repairs

After being used as a rental property, it's likely that your home will need some maintenance and repairs. This could include things like replacing old appliances, fixing any damage to the walls or flooring, and making sure the plumbing and electrical systems are in good working order. It's important to address any necessary repairs before moving back into the property to ensure that it is safe and comfortable.

Make Improvements

While you're going through the process of turning your rental property back into your primary residence, you might want to consider making some improvements to the home. This could include updating the kitchen or bathroom, adding a fresh coat of paint, or landscaping the yard. Making these improvements can not only increase the value of your property, but they can also make it feel like a brand new home.

Reapply for Homestead Exemptions and Insurance Coverage

If you previously had homestead exemptions on your property (which can reduce your property taxes), you'll need to reapply for them once you start living in the home again. You'll also need to update your insurance coverage to reflect that you're now living on the property. It's important to take care of these details to ensure that you're not paying more than you need to in taxes or that you're not underinsured.

Create a Budget

Before you start making any changes to the property, it's a good idea to create a budget to help you plan for the costs involved. This can help you make informed decisions about improvements and how much you can afford to spend.

Consult with Professionals

Depending on the extent of the repairs or improvements you want to make, you may want to consult with professionals such as contractors, electricians, or plumbers. These professionals can help you determine the scope of work needed and provide estimates for the costs involved.

Consider Working With a Financing Company

If you need financial assistance with the maintenance, repairs, or improvements you're making to your property, Leaf Management Financing Corporation can help. They offer various financing options to help you get the money you need to turn your rental property back into your primary residence.

Wrapping Up

By following these steps, you can make the process of turning your rental property back into your primary residence as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you're downsizing or simply didn't find being a landlord to be as profitable as you'd hoped, moving back into your home can be a great solution. Just be sure to take the necessary steps to get your property in good condition and to update your homestead exemptions and insurance coverage. With a little planning and some financing help from Leaf Management Financing Corporation, you can make the transition back into your home a success. Get in touch with us, we are always ready to help.