Saturday, April 6, 2024

Pet-Friendly Rentals

 Should Your Rental Property be Pet Friendly? Pros & Cons


Our furry friends are quite meaningful to us, and a rental property that allows people to bring their pets with them is widely appealing to many. After all, people are often inseparable from their dogs and cats.

PROS OF A PET-FRIENDLY RENTAL PROPERTY

There are quite a few pros of a pet-friendly property. Firstly, it is just more appealing to the general public.

1. MORE TENANTS WILL BE INTERESTED IN YOUR PROPERTY

You can usually fill vacant units faster because pet-friendly rentals appeal to a wider range of potential tenants.

2. YOU CAN CHARGE A HIGHER RATE

You can charge more money if you have a pet-friendly unit. This can be in the form of a pet deposit or pet rent if you wish.

3. PET OWNERS ARE GENERALLY RESPONSIBLE TENANTS

It takes a lot to tend to our furry friends, so pet owners are generally quite responsible. Most tenants will crate their dogs when they are away if required to do so or will invest in training. This could decrease property damage.

CONS OF A PET-FRIENDLY RENTAL PROPERTY

Honestly, there are plenty of cons when it comes to renting out a pet-friendly unit as well. Namely, the risk of property damage is generally much higher.

1. PETS MIGHT DAMAGE THE PROPERTY

If animals aren't well-trained, they may damage the property.

This could include:

  • Scratch marks
  • Chewed wood
  • Bad odors
  • Chewed cables or wires
  • Destroyed landscaping

If you want to decrease the risk of property damage, you could outline the consequences for damages caused by pets in the lease agreement.

2. NOISE FROM PETS

Pets can be quite noisy, especially if we are talking about dogs. This can disrupt other tenants and neighbors. You can ask the tenants about their dog's barking habits and even talk to prior landlords about this. You could also only allow cats to decrease this risk.

3. PET ALLERGIES

A lot of people are allergic to pets, and many long-haired cats and dogs shed. The owner is likely just fine with this, but their neighbors might not be. Additionally, allergens will often spread through the air conditioning ducts and affect common areas. For this reason, you will likely want to have a building-wide pet policy in place.

4. PET-RELATED INJURIES

Pets can often lead to various injuries for tenants. For this reason, you may also want to require renters insurance, including a pet policy.

HOW TO SCREEN YOUR TENANTS

You will likely want to screen your tenants and their furry friends if you have pet-friendly rentals.

You can do this by:

  • Creating an Avail account
  • Requesting a rental application and screening reports
  • Requesting training documents, vaccination status, and images
  • Approving or denying applications

Approving or denying applications will likely limit noise complaints. If you are going to allow dogs, you might want to opt for smaller breeds only or other specific restrictions. You could also limit the number of pets each tenant can have.

You may want to ask tenants the following questions when screening them:

  • How many pets do you own?
  • What is the pet's breed and size?
  • How old is the pet?
  • How long have you owned the pet?
  • Are you solely responsible for the pet?
  • Has your pet ever acted out of aggression towards another person or pet?
  • Is your pet trained?
  • Does your pet get along with people, other animals, and children?

These are important questions to ask before renting out your unit to a tenant and their pet. If they only own one or two small pets, that is likely ideal. If the pet is aggressive or untrained, you could potentially deny their application so that you know they don't cause very much trouble. On the other hand, a trained, fairly quiet pet could be a great addition to the community.

In short, having pet-friendly apartments certainly has its pros and cons: On one hand, you will likely get more renters and happy pet owners. On the other hand, you could have to deal with more noise complaints and grumpy neighbors. In any case, if you do decide to opt for a pet-friendly apartment, you will likely want to screen your tenants and have a solid pet policy in place.


Furnishing Your Rental - Yes or No?

 Should You Furnish Your Rental Property? 5 Pros & 5 Cons


Renting to tenants can often be difficult, and it's important to make your units appealing to potential customers. For this reason, furnishing a home can often make it look more inviting. That being said, it can also cost a pretty penny to do this, so you might want to consider the pros and cons before investing in it.

PROS OF FURNISHING YOUR RENTAL PROPERTY

There are many pros to furnishing a rental apartment. Firstly, you can charge a higher rent.

1. YOU CAN CHARGE A HIGHER RENT

Perhaps most importantly, furnishing your house or apartment means that you can charge a higher rent: Furnished properties earn 15-50% more than unfurnished ones, and that can mean 20% higher rent. If you are looking at a short-term rental, this can lead to 50% higher rent, which is quite significant.

2. THERE IS A HIGHER SECURITY DEPOSIT

If your unit is furnished, you are justified in charging a higher security deposit, which is an excellent way to make a bit more off of your investment. Honestly, tenants understand how costly and time-consuming it is to furnish an apartment, so they are often willing to pay more. This significantly increases the security deposit: Two months' worth of rent is typical.

3. YOUR PROPERTY MAY BE RENTED MORE SWIFTLY

Furnished apartments are extremely convenient: Renters don't have to worry about finding a way to move the furniture they currently have or pay for new pieces. Instead, they can simply step inside and be ready to go. This means that your property will likely be rented a lot faster than it would be otherwise. If you are looking for a quick return on your investment, furnishing the home is probably a good idea.

4. YOU WILL PROBABLY HAVE MORE PROSPECTIVE TENANTS

If you have furnished your rental, you are probably going to attract both short-term and long-term buyers, which means the place will likely not stay vacant for long.

5. YOU WILL HAVE A GREATER MANAGEMENT ROLE

Tenants usually understand that you can enforce stricter rules when it comes to maintaining the property. This relationship often reduces damages, leading to fewer costs for you.

In short, furnishing your rental property boasts a myriad of benefits.

CONS OF FURNISHING YOUR RENTAL PROPERTY

Like everything in life, furnishing your rental unit also has its cons. Namely, there is a greater risk of tenant damage.

1. TENANTS HAVE LESS FLEXIBILITY

Furnishing a unit can lead to less satisfied tenants, believe it or not. This is because they don't get to customize the space to their own tastes, so they may feel like it is not quite as cozy as they'd like it to be. In short, they often do not feel at home.

2. THERE IS A GREATER RISK OF TENANT DAMAGE

Tenants can potentially damage the furniture, rugs, etcetera. This could lead to higher costs for you.

3. THERE IS A POSSIBILITY OF VALUE DEPRECIATION OVER TIME

If there is furniture damage or the like, and you cannot find an appropriate replacement, this could lead to mismatched furniture, which lowers the appeal of the rental home and could potentially lead to value depreciation over time. It would also mean that you could probably not charge as much in the future.

4. FEWER LONG-TERM TENANTS

Furnished rentals are usually great for short-term tenants, but long-term renters often want to bring their own belongings with them since they have a personal attachment to them. This will likely mean that you don't have long-term tenants, so the return on your investment may not be as consistent or predictable as it would with an unfurnished rental over a long period of time. 

5. YOU MAY EXPERIENCE HIGHER TURNOVER

If you have a furnished rental, you will likely experience short-term leases, which means high tenant turnover. Maintenance between each tenant can be costly, and the place may stay vacant for a long period of time, which could be quite costly.

In short, renting out a furnished home is a high-risk, high-reward venture: You could potentially earn a great deal of money, but the income will likely be more unpredictable, and it will probably be quite costly to maintain the place between tenants. In addition, property damage is more likely.


Sunday, March 17, 2024

Luxury Real Estate - Yes or No?

 3 Pros and 3 Cons of Investing in Luxury Real Estate


Luxury real estate is beautiful, and if you have a lot of money on your hands, you may think of investing in it as a way to make a lot of money quickly, but that is not always the case. In fact, it is much more complicated. Before putting your money into a luxurious home, you will likely want to consider the many pros and cons of doing so.

WHAT IS LUXURY REAL ESTATE?

When people think of luxury real estate, they often envision the following:

  • A huge amount of square footage
  • An exceptionally desirable location
  • A beautiful interior
  • Amenities
  • A home office
  • A swimming pool
  • Smart technology

Some people also enjoy heated flooring and the like. In general, these properties scream luxury and are exceptionally expensive as a result.

PROS OF INVESTING IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE 

First of all, there are plenty of pros that come with investing in luxury real estate. Perhaps most importantly, you will likely get higher returns.

1. HIGHER RETURNS

If you offer a luxurious place to live, wealthy clients will likely pay you more to reside there as a result. This is an enormous benefit of finding a truly special property to put your money into.

2. LOWER MAINTENANCE COSTS

Generally speaking, these properties are maintained better than your average single-family home. Perhaps this is because they are so lovely to live in, or maybe it is because the tenants have more money to hire a gardener, housekeeper, etcetera. Whatever the case may be, you can likely count on lower maintenance costs, which is certainly a benefit, as these can add up over time.

3. MORE MARKET STABILITY

More often than not, luxury properties have a great deal more market stability. This is because they are generally quite well-maintained and they will not depreciate as quickly as more affordable real estate investments would over time. Also, these homes will be well-maintained nine times out of ten, so you usually don't have to worry about them becoming less desirable due to damages, etcetera.

As you can see, if you have the budget for it, investing in luxury real estate will likely pay off in a big way.

CONS OF INVESTING IN LUXURY REAL ESTATE

Unfortunately, everything in life has its cons, and that includes investing in luxury real estate. Firstly, there are extremely high initial costs if you want to go this route.

1. HIGHER INITIAL COSTS

First of all, luxury properties are expensive, so you will need to have enough cash on hand to purchase them. If you were to invest in a regular residential property, that would be a lot more affordable. That said, the return would not be nearly as high.

2. UNIQUE REQUIREMENTS

Investing in luxury real estate is a unique challenge: These homes often have special requirements. This means a great deal of specific knowledge on your part, not to mention doing your due diligence. In short, you will have to have patience and do a lot of research if you go this route.

3. A LONGER BUYING PROCESS

Generally speaking, investing in luxury real estate just takes longer: the market is smaller, and fewer homes are available. If you are looking to invest immediately, you will likely want to pursue a different strategy.

WHICH TENANTS TO CONSIDER

When searching for tenants, you might want to consider the following factors:

  • Age
  • Hobbies
  • Lifestyle
  • Income
  • Interests
  • Occupation

You could consider hiring a real estate agent if you are having a great deal of trouble finding the right tenants. They generally charge a handsome fee, but they can often be quite helpful.

Whenever you are investing, it is important to weigh the pros and cons. Luxury real estate is no different. It can be extremely rewarding, but it can often be very costly as well. Sometimes, the best strategy is to simply invest in a single-family home and count on consistent—if lower—returns along with the lower initial cost.

A large part of investing in luxury properties is finding the right tenants who will maintain the place properly and be able to pay you handsomely for your investment. Honestly, this can take time and is often risky, but if you find the right tenants and the right property, you have struck gold.


Best Cities to Purchase Investment Properties This Year

 8 Best Cities to Buy Investment Properties in 2024


Real estate investments are often incredibly lucrative, but you may hear the phrase, "location, location, location." This is for a good reason: If you invest in a breathtaking home in the city with a good view, you will likely get a better return on your investment. That being said, there are a lot of items to check off of your list when looking for properties:

  • Are there good schools nearby?
  • Is the property in a safe area?
  • Is there enough space for a family?

There may be even more benefits of the property to look for depending on your goals and budget. There are a myriad of cities that offer prime real estate which could potentially offer excellent returns.

1. NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

Nashville has experienced a slowdown in the housing market recently, but this is a relative term. It is the most populous city in the state and the average household income has grown by 6.6%, so there is a higher potential for cash flow. Demand in the Music City is higher than inventory.

These are some of the reasons to invest in real estate in Nashville:

  • Activity in the real estate market
  • Growth in property values
  • The strength of the local economy
  • Immense job growth
  • Immense population growth

Perhaps best of all, experts are predicting a 19% growth in house prices in the next year, so this is likely an excellent investment.

2. TAMPA, FLORIDA

If you have a large budget to play with, Tampa, Florida properties might just be your best bet: The average home price is $323,040 and the average rent price is $1970/month. Tampa is growing fast.

You should invest in a Tampa property because of these factors:

  • Over the past year, there has been an approximate 27.7% increase in the price of homes
  • There has only been a 1.4% increase in the population
  • There has been a 39% increase in rental prices

These rates are significantly above the national average, making Tampa, Florida one of the best places to invest in real estate in 2024.

3. AUSTIN, TEXAS

Austin, Texas is an excellent place to live, and a lot of people know it. This is a common haven to relocate to since there is no income tax.

This is why you should invest in real estate in Austin:

  • The housing prices have nearly doubled over the past ten years
  • It has experienced enormous population growth
  • Austin has a 4.2% unemployment rate, which is lower than the national average

This is an excellent place to invest.

4. CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA

Charlotte is an excellent place to invest in real estate: The market has experienced an incredible 16.4% increase over the past year.

You should invest in real estate in Charlotte due to the following factors:

  • Enormous population growth
  • Huge job expansion
  • 25 colleges and universities
  • Affordable housing

If you are looking for an affordable option with a consistent, predictable return, this is likely it.

5. BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA

You might not consider Birmingham as a place for prime real estate, but it is an excellent option.

This is why:

  • The Birmingham real estate market consistently performs highly
  • The Birmingham metro is uniquely affordable.
  • Birmingham's recent revitalization has increased its popularity
  • The city is a hub for publishing, medical research, banking, construction, and technology job opportunities
  • The city is uniquely affordable

If you are looking for an affordable investment that offers a predictable return, Birmingham is likely a great option. It is also an excellent way to support affordable housing.

6. RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA

Raleigh is an intellectual hub. Namely, it is a member of the research triangle, which consists of Chapel Hill, Durham, and Raleigh, and it is home to a myriad of jobs and opportunities in the technology sphere. This makes it an attractive place to live for many.

You should invest in real estate in Raleigh for the following reasons:

  • Approximately 43% of the population rents instead of buying
  • Raleigh has an unemployment rate that is significantly below the national average
  • Raleigh has an annual average income that is well above the national average

If you are looking for consistent income from rental investments, Raleigh is likely for you.

7. LAS VEGAS, NEVADA

Perhaps it is no surprise that the famous Sin City is on the list. The appreciation rate on homes here is enormous. That being said, these houses average about $346, 295.

Las Vegas is likely an excellent investment if you are working with a large budget because:

  • Home prices have appreciated about 75% over the past five years
  • Las Vegas has relatively low vacancy
  • Las Vegas has high rent-to-income ratios
  • Las Vegas has an increasing number of businesses
  • Home prices in Sin City have soared
  • A lot of people have been pushed into renting due to the competition locally
  • There is a continuous increase in rental demand in Las Vegas, Nevada

In short, this is a good bet whether you are looking for renters or home buyers.

8. DALLAS, TEXAS

Dallas, Texas is an excellent place to invest in real estate. It has experienced enormous population and job growth recently.

You should consider investing in real estate in Dallas due to the following factors:

  • Rapid job growth
  • Rapid population growth
  • It is a relatively affordable city, attracting potential renters and homebuyers
  • There is a high median household income
  • Dallas is quickly becoming home to large tech companies

In short, you can likely find an affordable investment in or around the city that will probably lead to a good return.

Investing in real estate can be quite lucrative, but it can also be extremely costly. Depending on the budget you are working with, you might want to consider what your goals are: do you want a significant return and have enough to throw your money into something truly special—and expensive— or would you rather opt for a more affordable investment that offers decent housing for a reasonable price to those who are looking for it? One decision isn't worse than the other, but you will likely yield different results depending on the route you take.


Sunday, March 10, 2024

The Importance of Savings Fund

 The Importance of a Savings Fund for Your Rental Property Business.


The income from a rental property, or an entire portfolio of properties, generates its own momentum. As long as you have another months' rent coming in, you can easily cover the expenses needed to maintain your properties. However, the sudden need for large-scale repairs can completely throw off your calculations for both budget and profit.

Unexpected expenses may be difficult to cover unless you have carefully built up a savings fund with these types of problems in mind.  Replacements and major repairs cost more than any single month's profit margins. As an experienced property management firm, Leaf Management can help you build the right savings plan to ensure the strength and long-term profitability of your rental property business. Here's how to plan financially for the unexpected.

 

The 1% Maintenance Rule

The first rule of thumb is the 1% maintenance rule. Every new homeowner should be advised to set aside approximately 1% of the property cost per year to cover maintenance and repairs. This amount should go into a savings fund - you won't need the whole of it every year. Most years, little repairs will only require a fraction. But in five years, you will have saved enough for the inevitable major repair that may be needed.

Homes occasionally have quite large and sometimes unexpected expenses. The heater may go out one winter, or a bad storm might seriously damage the roof. setting aside 1% of each property's value per year in your savings account can ensure you will usually have enough to cover a major repair for any of your rental properties in a given year.

 

Saving for Three Months of Expenses

Another useful savings strategy for a rental investor is to prepare for 3-6 months of expenses, just in case. What if a tenant leaves next year and it takes longer than usual to replace them? What if a costly major repair is necessary before you can resume collecting rental income? If the house becomes unlivable during a tenant's lease, you may need to discount them a month of rent until the house is repaired and livable again.

Having a nice cushion of 3-6 months expenses can create that necessary margin and provide the funds you need for the next big repair or replacement cost. The larger your cushion, the more you can relax when unexpected setbacks, expenses, and vacancies occur.

 

Build a Major Maintenances Saving Schedule

You can also take a page from commercial real estate strategy. In commercial real estate, a maintenance schedule is used to predict major repair and replacement costs. For example, it will include both annual HVAC tune-ups and the inevitable system replacement 15-20 years after the current unit was installed. The schedule includes these calculations for every major system.

In the case of a residential investment owner, this would include the water heater, AC, heater, roof, plumbing, and so on. Knowing when to expect these expenses can help you save up for when then inevitably need repair and eventual replacement. In fact, you might even have a replacement ready before a catastrophic failure occurs.

 

Diversifying Your Portfolio and Risk Exposure

Lastly, owning and renting out more properties can soften the impact when a single property needs a major repair. Let's say you manage 10 rental homes instead of one. If one of those ten homes has a delayed turnover, the rental income from the other nine will help to cover the gap and provide for any unexpected expenses. You can also spread out your savings plan to pull a smaller percentage from the profit of each individual rental income.

 

Smart Maintenance and Savings Planning with Leaf Management

Planning ahead is the best way to be prepared financially for the ups and downs of rental property investment. Savvy landlords and investors know that large expenses will happen eventually, and it's best to have funds to cover them before the next surprise. Better yet, is to not be surprised at all by knowing the age and maintenance schedule of every major system in your investment portfolio.

Property management is more than just keeping tenants happy. At Leaf Management, we can help property owners build a smart savings plan to enjoy both rental income profits and prepare their business for the inevitable surprise maintenance expenses around the corner. For more insights into rental property business success strategies or expert property management services, contact us today.


Sunday, March 3, 2024

Budgeting a Flip

 How to Budget a Flip with a Kitchen Remodel


When flipping a house to sell or rent, you know that the kitchen makes an important and powerful impression. Modern residents want a modern kitchen with nice, fresh finishes and reasonably new appliances. Many flips that update a once-shabby house have an outdated kitchen that needs work. On the other hand, experienced flippers will often warn away from kitchen remodels as a potential sink of time and money.

What this really means is that you should only commit to a kitchen remodel when you can accurately price and budget the changes you plan to make. A little retiling, a new stove, and a fresh coat of paint can go a long way. But rebuilding the cabinets and countertop could soak up almost your entire flip budget. Therefore, the first step is knowing how to price a kitchen remodel.

 

Estimated Kitchen Remodel Costs

A light remodel for a kitchen can be as affordable as $5,000 to $7,000 for fresh finishes, hardware, and an appliance or two. A full kitchen remodel, especially for a luxury property, can  cost anywhere from $50,000 to $125,000, depending on the intended extent of your kitchen transformation. 

Most flippers should not go all-in on a luxury kitchen remodel, but it's useful to know the outer limits.

 

6 Factors that Influence Kitchen Remodeling Prices

A high-end kitchen remodel cost in is defined by the materials you use and how much you rebuild your kitchen. It's one thing to repaint the cabinets and swap out some hardware, and completely different price range to rebuild the entire kitchen from the wall studs and wiring.

Let's explore the six most important elements that can affect your kitchen remodeling cost.

1) Square Footage

The size of your kitchen can help you estimate how much your desired changes will cost.

  • Most ranch style homes have kitchens of 150 sq-ft.
  • Two-story homes of 3000 sq-ft or more typically have 175 sq-ft kitchnes
  • Large homes between 3K and 4K sq-ft often have 195 sq-ft kitchens
  • Luxury and gourmet style kitchens can start at 200 sq-ft and may be even larger.

2) Cabinets

Whether or not you rebuild the cabinets will have a huge impact on your kitchen remodeling price. This is why repainting, refinishing, or even replacing the doors are popular options. Rebuilding cabinets can occupy 30% to 50% of your total remodeling budget.

If possible, avoid rebuilding the cabinets, or only replace the doors for style. Shore up the insides for stability or even re-frame the interior boxes for cleanliness, but leave the counters intact. 

3) Walls

Changing the walls requires structural adjustments and may even require the installation of wood or steel beams as well as new drywall divisions, insulation, wiring, and plumbing installations.

Changing the walls of your kitchen can add between $10,000 and $20,000 to any kitchen remodel project.

4) Flooring

Every kitchen needs an excellent floor. Hardwood floors throughout the house are extremely popular right now, providing an elegant yet continuous look. However, luxury laminate board provides the moisture and scratch resistance that a kitchen truly needs.

New kitchen floors floors can update the style, convenience, and even comfort if you choose to add padding or heated wire underneath. Your choice of flooring material will have the biggest impact on cost per square foot.

5) Counter Tops

Countertops are a notorious part of pricing a kitchen renovation. Your choice of stone and style will each influence how much finishing your kitchen remodel may cost.

Marble and granite are timeless, while concrete offers a modern style, butcherblock provides utilitarian elegance, and quartzite introduces the waterproof benefits of a manmade slab.

6) Appliances and Fixtures

New appliances can help to completely modernize a kitchen, and they can be affordably sourced for good quality and attractive kitchen equipment.  Energy-efficient appliances are a valuable long-term investment for both utility costs and a sustainable home.

 

Know Your Kitchen Flipping Costs

Take these generalized tips along with a few measurements to your contractor - or the home improvement store if you're flipping DIY. Determine the cost for materials and the time investment for minor vs major changes. In most cases, a bit of new tile, fresh paint, and a few pieces of new plumbing and cabinet hardware can make all the difference without blowing your renovation budget.

When you're ready to rent the house to new tenants after the flip, look to Leaf Management to help keep your tenants and your property in top condition.


Wednesday, February 21, 2024

The Back-end Financials of Your Real Estate Business

 The Importance of a Savings Fund for Your Rental Property Business.

 

 

The income from a rental property, or an entire portfolio of properties, generates its own momentum. As long as you have another months' rent coming in, you can easily cover the expenses needed to maintain your properties. However, the sudden need for large-scale repairs can completely throw off your calculations for both budget and profit.

Unexpected expenses may be difficult to cover unless you have carefully built up a savings fund with these types of problems in mind.  Replacements and major repairs cost more than any single month's profit margins. As an experienced property management firm, Leaf Management can help you build the right savings plan to ensure the strength and long-term profitability of your rental property business. Here's how to plan financially for the unexpected.

 

The 1% Maintenance Rule

The first rule of thumb is the 1% maintenance rule. Every new homeowner should be advised to set aside approximately 1% of the property cost per year to cover maintenance and repairs. This amount should go into a savings fund - you won't need the whole of it every year. Most years, little repairs will only require a fraction. But in five years, you will have saved enough for the inevitable major repair that may be needed.

Homes occasionally have quite large and sometimes unexpected expenses. The heater may go out one winter, or a bad storm might seriously damage the roof. setting aside 1% of each property's value per year in your savings account can ensure you will usually have enough to cover a major repair for any of your rental properties in a given year.

 

Saving for Three Months of Expenses

Another useful savings strategy for a rental investor is to prepare for 3-6 months of expenses, just in case. What if a tenant leaves next year and it takes longer than usual to replace them? What if a costly major repair is necessary before you can resume collecting rental income? If the house becomes unlivable during a tenant's lease, you may need to discount them a month of rent until the house is repaired and livable again.

Having a nice cushion of 3-6 months expenses can create that necessary margin and provide the funds you need for the next big repair or replacement cost. The larger your cushion, the more you can relax when unexpected setbacks, expenses, and vacancies occur.

 

Build a Major Maintenances Saving Schedule

You can also take a page from commercial real estate strategy. In commercial real estate, a maintenance schedule is used to predict major repair and replacement costs. For example, it will include both annual HVAC tune-ups and the inevitable system replacement 15-20 years after the current unit was installed. The schedule includes these calculations for every major system.

In the case of a residential investment owner, this would include the water heater, AC, heater, roof, plumbing, and so on. Knowing when to expect these expenses can help you save up for when then inevitably need repair and eventual replacement. In fact, you might even have a replacement ready before a catastrophic failure occurs.

 

Diversifying Your Portfolio and Risk Exposure

Lastly, owning and renting out more properties can soften the impact when a single property needs a major repair. Let's say you manage 10 rental homes instead of one. If one of those ten homes has a delayed turnover, the rental income from the other nine will help to cover the gap and provide for any unexpected expenses. You can also spread out your savings plan to pull a smaller percentage from the profit of each individual rental income.

 

Smart Maintenance and Savings Planning with Leaf Management

Planning ahead is the best way to be prepared financially for the ups and downs of rental property investment. Savvy landlords and investors know that large expenses will happen eventually, and it's best to have funds to cover them before the next surprise. Better yet, is to not be surprised at all by knowing the age and maintenance schedule of every major system in your investment portfolio.

Property management is more than just keeping tenants happy. At Leaf Management, we can help property owners build a smart savings plan to enjoy both rental income profits and prepare their business for the inevitable surprise maintenance expenses around the corner. For more insights into rental property business success strategies or expert property management services, contact us today.

Sunday, February 11, 2024

Selecting your Property Manager

 

Identifying the Right Property Manager for the Job

What to Look for When Hiring a Property Manager

Buying an investment property is only the first step in a profitable real estate business plan. Whether you have chosen a single-family house, a multi-family building, or even a commercial property, most investors partner with a property manager to help run the business side of things. Property managers maintain the building and grounds, take care of your tenants, and handle the routine of marketing and screening for new tenants. They collect rent on your behalf and make sure that routine matters are neatly handled so you don't have to wait by the phone all the time.

However, there is an important difference between a good vs bad property manager. Not all property managers or services are the same, and it's important to find the right property manager to take good care of your investments. 

What should you look for in a property manager? The signs are clear if you know how to see them.

 

A Successful Track Record and Positive Reviews

First, check their reputation. A good property manager or management team will likely have a positive public rating and several satisfied reviews from other property owners who have benefitted from the service. Check licenses and business ratings. Check their website and Google reviews. A well-reputed business is often easy to spot, while one with a minimal web presence should cause you to look twice.

 

A Team with 24/7 Availability

The most effective property management services are teams that can provide 24/7 support for your tenants. Emergencies can happen any time. When storms hit, pipes burst, or the AC/Heat goes out, you want your property management team to have someone answering the phone, ready to send an emergency service over right away. A responsive 24/7 team will take better care of both your tenants and your property with the ability to act swiftly and prevent further damage.

 

A Trusted Resident Service Network

Speaking of services, a good property management team will likely have a network of trustworthy trades services on-call. They will know the three best plumbers in town, have a favorite roofing service, and know where to get fast HVAC repairs at a good price. Property managers who are already successful in the area will know who to call for every type of emergency, including services that can send a repair team in the middle of the night, if necessary.

 

A Website and Client/Tenant Portal

Tech-savviness and accessibility also play an important role. Look for a property management team with a website and portal features. Property owners should be able to see their properties and how they are being managed. Tenants should have an easy online path to maintenance requests and inspection scheduling. If you see a high-quality property management website that is clearly in active use, this is a good sign.

 

A Streamlined Onboarding and Turnover Process

Onboarding a new property and the tenant turnover process are two of the most intensive jobs a property manager must do. They should have a streamlined process for cleaning, repainting, and repairing properties before tenants move in. They should know how to attractively photograph and list a property, and have a trusted process for attracting, screening, and selecting tenants.

A good tenant turnover process achieves three important things. First, it will minimize the money you lose to vacant months when your previous tenant leaves. Two, it will ensure that your property gets a full maintenance round and is spruced up between tenants. Three, it ensures that high quality tenants are selected who will be good stewards of your property.

 

Responsive and Clear Communication

Lastly, be sure you are satisfied with the communication style and responsiveness of your property manager. You want a provider or team who answers emails promptly, can always make time for a phonecall, and who gives clear information both routinely and when asked. Request to see how they send routine reports to their landlord clients and start a comfortable flow of communication before you engage a property manager to ensure that you and they will get along as business partners. 

 

Making the Right Choice for Your Property Management

Choosing a property manager, you are entrusting your investment real estate to the care of another person or team. They should be competant, proven, trustworthy, and have a network ready to deploy in the care of your property and tenants. They should have the right attitude, a responsive communication style, and co-management routine that works for you as the property owner.

At Leaf Management, we strive to embody every one of these requirements and will gladly show you our credentials, routine, and network so that you can rest at ease with your properties in the care of our management teams. Your properties should be managed by someone you can trust, contact us today to

Best Homes for Flipping

 

What Homes are the Best for Flipping? 

Over the past few years, house flipping has been rising in popularity, and it's with good reason. This is because data shows that you can expect an average return on investment (ROI) of 26.9%, translating to a gross profit of $67,900. 

While it's a lucrative venture, it also has its risks. If you invest in the wrong property, it may be long before you get a buyer. Even worse, you may end up losing money on your investment.

So, if you want to make consistent profits flipping homes, keep reading to learn the best homes for flipping and the top factors to consider.

Targeting the Gold Mines: Features of Profitable Homes

When it comes to flipping homes for maximum profit, understanding the dynamics of a property's location is paramount. The adage "location, location, location" couldn't be more accurate. Start by researching neighborhoods with rising property values and increasing demand. 

Moreover, its proximity to amenities, good schools, and accessible transportation all contribute to a prime location that attracts potential buyers.

Equally crucial is assessing the structural integrity of a potential investment. Aesthetics may catch the eye, but a solid foundation, well-maintained plumbing, and a sound electrical system are the backbone of a successful flip. Undertake a comprehensive inspection or hire professionals to ensure you're not dealing with hidden issues that can erode your profit margins.

Moreover, savvy investors stay ahead of the curve by considering market trends. Keep an eye on emerging neighborhood developments, shifts in buyer preferences, and upcoming infrastructure projects. Being attuned to the pulse of the real estate market allows you to identify opportunities for investment before they become mainstream, giving you a competitive edge.

Beyond Curb Appeal: A Deep Dive into Aesthetic Potential

When looking for properties, the visual impression can sway potential buyers. As such, aesthetics play a key role in home flipping profitability. There, consider the visual appeal and the impact of strategic cosmetic renovations when selecting properties to flip. 

You'll be surprised at how small changes, such as modernizing kitchens, upgrading bathrooms, and enhancing curb appeal, can elevate a property's perceived value. 

However, it's essential to navigate the realm of design and layout with caution. While personal touches can add character, steering clear of red flags in design is crucial. Overly personalized or niche renovations may limit your potential buyer pool, affecting marketability. So, aim to strike a balance between trendy and timeless design ensures your investment appeals to a broad audience.

Moreover, scrutinize the layout for functionality and flow. Open floor plans, ample storage, and a harmonious spatial arrangement contribute to the overall allure of a property. Avoid layouts that impede the natural flow of movement or hinder the potential for future customization.

Financial Fortunes: Budgeting and Cost Considerations

The financial success of a home-flipping venture hinges on meticulous budgeting and astute cost considerations. This is why accurately estimating renovation costs is the cornerstone of a profitable project. 

Begin by conducting a thorough evaluation of the property's condition, identifying areas that demand attention, and obtaining quotes from reliable contractors. A well-defined budget not only prevents financial overreach but also allows for a streamlined and efficient renovation process. Equally vital is the art of balancing upgrades for optimal returns. Invest strategically in areas that have the most significant impact on the property's value. 

You should also consider modernizing kitchens and bathrooms, upgrading flooring, and enhancing energy efficiency are often wise choices. However, avoid unnecessary splurges on features that may not yield a proportional increase in the property's market value.

Furthermore, keeping a contingency fund is prudent to navigate unforeseen challenges that may arise during renovations. Unanticipated issues, such as hidden structural problems or unexpected permit costs, can impact your bottom line. 

Therefore, a well-prepared budget, coupled with a keen understanding of where to allocate funds for maximum impact, is the roadmap to financial success in the world of home flipping.

Avoiding the Money Pits: Red Flags in Flipping Potential

In the pursuit of profitable home flipping, steering clear of potential money pits is crucial. Start by scrutinizing hidden issues that can escalate costs—plumbing, electrical, and foundation woes. A comprehensive pre-purchase inspection is non-negotiable to unveil any lurking problems that might compromise your investment.

Beyond the property's confines, be vigilant about neighborhood pitfalls. Investigate crime rates and school districts as they directly impact the property's desirability. A seemingly attractive house may lose its charm in a high-crime area or if the local schools fall short. Prioritize due diligence to secure a successful and lucrative flip.

Timing is Everything: The Art of Buying at the Right Moment

Beyond your ability to find and choose the right properties to flip, your timing must be impeccable. This involves capitalizing on market trends and a keen understanding of when to buy and sell for optimal returns. Keep a finger on the pulse of real estate fluctuations, and be ready to pounce when opportunities arise.

Additionally, steer clear of common seasonal pitfalls. While spring and summer often see increased buyer activity, competition may drive prices up. Contrarily, winter can offer bargains but may limit your pool of potential buyers. Therefore, you should navigate the market rhythm skillfully to ensure your investment aligns with the most opportune moments.

Get Ahead of the Competition with the Right Strategy

As mentioned, the line between success and failure in home flipping is thin. Fortunately, with the right strategy, you can be sure that your investments will be profitable. This starts with choosing the right properties and having detailed budgets to help you manage expenses and avoid unexpected costs.

Moreover, you need to be skilled at estimating renovation costs to ensure projects remain within budget and don't eat into potential profits. By considering these factors and carefully evaluating the local real estate market, you can increase your chances of a successful and profitable flipping endeavor. 

With the market for flipping houses growing, you'll need to have enough resources to fund your projects. That's where Leaf Management & Funding comes into play. We offer capital to house flippers to ensure you can comfortably grow your business. 

So, if you're in need of additional funding for your house-flipping venture, reach out to us today. We'll get you sorted in no time to ensure you don't miss out on any opportunity.

Sunday, January 28, 2024

Help Your Tenants Pass Their Move-Out Inspection

 

How to Help Your Tenants Pass Their Move-Out Inspection

Every skilled rental home investor knows that tenants can and should pass their move-out inspections. Sure, a little wear-and-tear is perfectly normal after a year or more of residence. But in reality, you want to give their security deposit back in full. You want them to pass the inspection with flying colors, with no major repairs or cleanup necessary after they depart. This means happy ex-tenants and an easy turnover process for you.

Your favorite tenants are rental pros. They do their move-in inspection thoroughly, they get every sock from every closet, and they're polishing their way out the door. Star tenants like that often get all or most of their security deposit back, to the delight of both parties. But not all tenants are so attentive. How can you help your young, inexperienced, or absent-minded tenants pass their move-out inspections to everyone's benefit?

As experienced property managers, Leaf Management can share a few helpful tips to achieve this lofty dream.

 

Walk New Tenants Through the Move-In Inspection

When new tenants move in, walk them through their own move-in inspection. This is especially helpful for young adults. College-age tenants might be renting their first real house or apartment. They may have never done a move-in inspection before. Showing tenants the checklist and how to take quick phone pictures that correspond with the list can be really helpful, and create that essential move-in condition record of the house that benefits both parties.

New tenants can quickly learn how to take notes. Show you are on their side by explaining how any flaws documented on move-in day are, by definition, not their responsibility when they move out. This will encourage really thorough note-taking and photos for a high-quality move-in inspection.

 

Emphasize Security Deposit Terms in the Lease

Tenants want their security deposit back when they move out, and you want to give it to them. To do that, they need to understand their duty to take good care of the house and repair - or responsibly request repairs - for any damage that occurs.

Show tenants the specific terms in the lease regarding their security deposit and consider using bold type in the document. Give tenants every chance to understand how they can secure their security deposits by maintaining the house, avoiding unnecessary damage, and reporting any serious problems immediately for repairs.

Tenants who really care about their security deposits will usually pay attention and take the necessary steps.

 

Mention Repairs in Annual and 6-Month Inspections

Most landlords or their property management teams conduct inspections every 6 to 12 months. When this happens, keep an eye out for scuffs, damage, or signs of other property issues. If you spot something, point it out to the tenant. If it's their responsibility, provide some tips on how to spackle and touch up wall paint, or offer to send over a repair service if it's a landlord-side issue.

Mention the duty of care and casually inject the idea of maintaining the tenant's security deposit return status if they take care of these little matters promptly. Sometimes, a friendly reminder of what can be gained from responsive repairs is all it takes.

 

When Tenants Plan to Go, Remind Them to Prepare for the Move-Out Inspection

When tenants let you know that they will be moving out soon, begin steps to help them complete their move-out inspection and, hopefully, get their security deposit back. 

During the conversation or email exchange, remind tenants that their move-out calendar is also a countdown to their move-out inspection. Provide a friendly reminder that now is the perfect time to finish or request any repairs so the house is in good condition when they leave.

 

Email Tenants a Copy of the Move-Out Inspection Form

Help out your tenants in completing the paperwork half of the move-out inspection. Email them a digital copy - ideally an editable PDF - so that they can get started inspecting and repairing any damage they find as they go down the list.

Tenants can then print out the inspection form as they load up the last of their boxes and may even complete the move-out inspection with detailed notes and photos. Some will, some won't But that email can make the difference.

 

Provide an Inspection Phone App for Easy Snapshot Documentation

You might consider upgrading your move-in / move-out inspection tech level. There are now pretty useful home inspection apps that make it easy to tap in notes using the phone softkey and even instantly attach photographs taken with the phone camera. 

For today's tech-savvy tenants, especially young adult tenants in Gen Z, a phone app can increase the ease of inspection and the chance that they will actually conduct the entire move-in / move-out inspection process.

 

Schedule a Pre-Move-Out Walkthrough with Repair Reminders

You can even take personal steps to help tenants realize issues they have overlooked with time enough to schedule last-minute repairs. Do a walkthrough with tenants as they are packing to leave and point out any issues that might affect their move-out inspection. Show them a comparison to their move-in inspection photos and provide a few tips for effective or affordable repairs before move-out day.

 

Emphasize the Security Deposit Opportunity

Finally, re-emphasize to tenants that they could get their security deposits back - in part or in full - based on how well their move-out inspection status matches their move-in inspection notes and photos. Anyone thinking about their moving budget and how nice that security deposit could be during their move is likely to take steps to spruce up the place and take good photos to improve their finances while moving in to the new place.

 

Improve Your Tenant Turnover Process with Leaf Management

Tenant turnover is notoriously the most challenging aspect of rental home investment. Not only would you like to find clean and well-maintained spaces so you can send those security deposits back, but you also need to tackle repainting, re-marketing, and screening for new tenants within few short months. With a skilled property management service like Leaf Management, we can not only help set your tenants up for move-out success, but also streamline the entire turnover process.


Investing in Historic Homes

 What You Should Know Before Investing in a Historic Home

 

 

As you expand your real estate portfolio, you may come across an opportunity to invest in a historic home. For many people, this can be an exciting prospect as you will be purchasing a piece of local history. Additionally, homes in historic neighborhoods are usually easy to rent and come with high appreciation potential. Unfortunately, these properties can also come with their own unique challenges as well. From restrictions on renovations to potential maintenance problems, some investors find that historic properties are more trouble than they are worth. Thusly, before you go investing in a historic home, it is important that you understand the challenges that can come with owning one of these properties. Keep reading as we take a look at what you should know before investing in a historic home.  



 

Potential Tax Benefits

As any savvy investor knows, the right tax breaks can make a huge difference in the profitability of your real estate portfolio. While historic properties often require a great deal of work and maintenance (more on this later), governments at the state and federal level often offer tax incentives such as historic tax credits to help homeowners preserve historic properties. You may even qualify for an easement, which is an agreement between the owner of a historic property and a preservation group whereby the owner's income tax, property tax, or estate tax is reduced. This can help offset the cost of renovating and maintaining a historic property significantly, increasing its profitability. You may even be eligible for multiple benefits, you'll just have to take the time to research what kind of tax benefits your historic property may qualify you for.      



 

Strict Regulations

Every real estate investor has a different strategy. While some rent out their properties and keep them as part of their investment portfolio, others prefer to renovate them and immediately sell them for a profit (which is referred to as flipping). If you prefer to flip the homes you purchase, a historic home may not be a good fit for you, as renovations can be one of the biggest challenges of investing in a historic home. There are often strict regulations that you have to follow when renovating a historic home, particularly if it is in a historic district or it is a designated historic landmark. Even doing something as simple as swapping out a sink or repainting the home's exterior may need approval if your property is a historic landmark. 

Before you purchase a historic home, you should find out what would be involved in seeking approvals for remodels and upgrades. You will then have to decide if you are willing to deal with the oversight that will come with any remodel. However, if you are up to the challenge, restoring historic homes can be extremely rewarding and provide a high return on investment. 



 

High Appreciation Potential

While putting up with the red tape involved in maintaining and restoring a historic property can be a nuisance, all of your hard work will likely be worth it as you should see a high return on your investment. This is because well-preserved homes in historic districts typically see appreciation levels significantly higher than other properties. In fact, on average, a historic property's value is about 26 percent higher than other homes in the surrounding market. This means that if you restore a historic home that needs a little work, or you simply hold onto a historic property for a while, you could see exciting profits from your investment. 



 

Higher Maintenance Costs

The cost of maintaining a historic home can be quite high, as it is not uncommon to encounter problems with older homes. Additionally, many state and local governments have specific upkeep requirements for older homes, which means that you may have to perform work on your historic home more frequently than other properties in your portfolio. Additionally, these regulations also often require homeowners to use historically accurate materials, which can further increase maintenance costs. While many investors still find purchasing historic properties to be worthwhile, it is important that you are prepared for the costs that can come with owning one of these properties and factor these expenses into your budget. Fortunately, tax breaks and credits can help offset these costs significantly.   



 

Attract Long-Term Tenants

If you plan on purchasing a home as a rental property, then a historic property is a great option. Not only are these properties usually in high demand, but they tend to attract long-term tenants, helping to reduce vacancies. Additionally, historic districts tend to have higher rent than surrounding neighborhoods, making historic homes great for generating passive income. Short-term rentals are also a great option for owners of historic homes, as these neighborhoods tend to be in high demand on websites like Airbnb.  



 

You May Have Problems With Homeowners Insurance

Prospective investors in historic properties may run into problems getting homeowners insurance. Since historic properties are so costly to renovate and restore, many insurance companies are hesitant to offer homeowners insurance policies on these properties due to how costly repairing a policyholder's home could be following a fire or other covered disaster. While there are insurance companies that specialize in providing homeowners insurance policies for historic homes, these policies can be very expensive. If you plan on investing in a historic home as a rental property, you will have to figure out whether the rent you would be able to charge would offset the high costs of insuring the property. 



 

Investing in a historic property comes with its own unique set of challenges, but if you are willing to put in a little time and effort, the financial rewards make all of the hassle worthwhile. Feel free to contact us to learn more about the process involved in purchasing and maintaining a historic home as well as to find out about your financing options.  

Tuesday, January 9, 2024

Pest Control 101

 Stages of Pest Control Every Rental Property Needs


Pest control. It's something every landlord has to think about, and the presence of vermin can cause problems that affect your reputation as well as potential legal consequences. So, what can you do to properly handle pest control on your rental property.

Here are the stages of pest control:

Pest Reduction Upgrades

The first stage is to do property upgrades that help reduce pest problems. These include:

  • Sealing any holes in the walls, doors, and inside cabinets. Mice can get through holes the size of a dime. Avoid expanding caulk, which many pests will chew through.
  • Fixing leaky plumbing, which pests can use as a source of water. Fill holes around the pipes with steel wool.
  • Caulk crevices around cabinets or baseboards.
  • Repair warped or broken doors and windows.
  • Repair rips or tears in insect screens.
  • Install bulbs with pink, yellow, or orange tints on all exterior lights. These are less attractive to flying insects.
  • Inspect crawlspaces to look for rodent and ant nests.

You should do an "audit" for problems like this before renting the unit and also between tenants in case issues have developed.

Long Term Maintenance

Long term maintenance that is your responsibility can also help reduce pests. For example, trimming trees that overhang a house removes the "highway" squirrels might use to enter the property. Mulch should not be used right up against the foundation.

Arrange for pest control to enter each unit at least once a year. You may want to do it more often. Put this in the lease if you need to to ensure that tenants are aware. Most pest control services do not require that tenants move their property or not be in the unit when the treatment is done. You may have to do harsher treatments if tenants report a problem.

Provide tenants with an easy way to report sightings of significant pests such as mice, cockroaches, or bed bugs. Sightings of house centipedes should also be reported. Although house centipedes are not dangerous, if you have house centipedes, you have roaches.

Routine Maintenance

You can't always control what your tenants do. However, it's a good idea to educate them, especially in larger buildings where an issue can easily spread to neighboring units, on what they can do to keep pests out of their unit. Some tips you can pass on:

  • Store all food properly, in sealed containers. Do not leave pet food out overnight. Cover the kitchen trash can.
  • Empty the trash as soon as it is full. Take stacks of newspapers or cardboard to recycling promptly.
  • Wash out containers that contained food before putting them in the trash.
  • Reduce overall clutter
  • Clean sink and tub drains with baking soda and vinegar regularly. This also reduces clogs.
  • Clean regularly.
  • Keep the patio or deck free of leaf litter, mulch, plant clippings, and standing water.
  • Inspect packages for pests before bringing them inside.
  • Promptly launder and, if possible, tumble dry clothing when returning from trips. Also treat clothing that has been in storage.
  • Vacuum the bed and upholstered furniture.
  • Close exterior doors and use screens if opening windows for temperature control.

Again, provide tenants with a way to report pests and encourage them to do so. Some pest control might be doable by you or your maintenance people, such as providing mouse traps. Keep a regular contract with a pest control company who can come in and deal with infestations both mundane and exotic. Discourage tenants from trying to treat a heavy infestation themselves, although it's not a terrible idea to provide information on simple things they can do, such as repellents.

A good property manager can help you find the right pest control service and give you advice on the best upgrades and long term maintenance to deal with Boston's common pets.


How to Handle Forgotten Property

 

What to Do If Former Tenants Leave Belongings at the Property

Tenant turnover is an important part of managing a rental property. When one tenant leaves, the landlord or their property manager must prepare the home to get back on the market and welcome new tenants. This usually involves a deep cleaning, repainting, annual maintenance, and a few routine repairs. But what do you do if your previous tenants leave items behind?

Left-behind items become a final matter to be resolved between the landlord and former tenant. Fortunately, there are a few best-practices that make this process easy to navigate to everyone's satisfaction.

 

Know Your State Laws

First, make sure you are familiar with the state laws regarding left-behind property. Some states have very specific procedures you should go through, such as how you should hold the property and the correct channels or timeline to alert the former tenants. You may also be in a state where there is no requirement, and it is entirely up to you on how to deal with the left behind property.

 

Determine If "Trash or Treasure"

The first step is to determine if the left behind property was discarded as trash or is forgotten treasure. There's a big difference between a broken bookshelf chair left in the garage and a backpack of keepsakes in the top shelf of a closet. Do your best to determine if the property is trash your tenants meant to leave behind (but perhaps did not have time to put out on trash bulk day) vs property they will want back that holds monetary or personal value. 

One stray sock is not a big deal, but a wrapped dress is probably a treasure. Use your best judgment.

 

Photograph, Then Store the Property

If you determine that the property is likely valuable, photograph it in place - where you discovered it or nearby where you unearthed it from a hidden storage location. You will send these photos to your former tenant to let them know about the forgotten property.

From there, respectfully pack away the items and store them out of the way where they will not be disturbed or damaged. This could be a sealed box in the attic or, for larger left-behind property, you might rent a temporary storage locker.

 

Alert Former Tenants of Their Left-Behind Property

You will need to contact tenants to return their security deposit - or the itemized list justifying denial. In this process, include photos and a list of the left-behind property with a letter asking the tenant if they want to collect the items or if it's okay to dispose of them. If you have a working phone number, you can call, but it's also best to leave a paper trail via email or certified mail, as well. 

The tenant may then be grateful that you saved something precious, confused because they forgot they even owned the lost items, or dismissive because they consider the left-behind items to be trash.

 

Give Tenants a Time Limit to Collect The Items

If your tenants indicate that they want the property back - or they do not respond at all - hold the property for a set amount of time. The usual interval is one to three months. Let your tenant know that the property will be disposed of if they do not collect it before this point. Give your former tenants the option to pay for shipping, pick it up personally, or send a friend in town to pick it up.

 

Charge Shipping or Disposal to the Security Deposit

If the tenant requests shipping, you can charge it to their security deposit as part of the clean-up fee. The same is true for any cost you incur storing the items or disposing of them. This is one of those things that the security deposit is designed to smooth over at the end of the tenant-landlord relationship.

 

Include Your Policy in the Lease and Security Deposit Terms

Finally, make sure that your left-behind property policy is included in the initial lease and is a clear part of security deposit terms. This acts as your legal protection and ensures tenants have a chance to know what will happen if they leave personal property behind.

 

Handle Tenant Turnover Easily with Leaf Management

Some landlords enjoy the turnover process. But if handling typical situations like left-behind property is a hassle, a property management team can make being a landlord worlds easier. At Leaf Management, we can ensure that your lease terms include important terms like how left-behind property is handled and we will always take care of the intricacies of the turnover process on your behalf. Contact us today to learn more about good rental property policies and how a property manager can help.