Ever had an eviction? Find yourself with problem tenants? You might be sending the wrong message from Day 1.
Problem tenants will look for that laid back owner, who doesn't seem to care a lot. Or the part-time owner who doesn't seem to have much experience. Even if you have had only great tenants, READ ON.
1. Your rental ad must be crisp and clear including all the important items like price, size, bedrooms, etc. Highlight the selling features. List the community amenities.
1. Ad Photos. You don't need a lot, but enough to peak the interest of the tenant. Remember, the advertising is not to sell the property, it's to gain enough interest for the prospective tenant to contact you.
1. Have the ad state what the application fee will be; don't make it $25 or $35, make it higher. If they complain about the application fee, how hard will it be to get the rent each month? If they know you will actually pull their credit, criminal background, rental history, they might steer clear of you. Be sure to do your due diligence and pull the reports.
1. Have a quality application prepared for the tenant to fill out. Again the more serious they see you taking this, the more they will. Only serious, quality tenants will then apply. And if they can't fill out the application correctly, sign it, get it back to you in a timely manner. Do you really think the rent will be paid on time and accurately each month?
1. Don't negotiate on terms. Certainly don't negotiate before they have even seen the property. Nothing says 'pushover' like bending before they even meet with you. It's your property, act like you own it.
1. CHECK REFERENCES. Do not be lazy.
1. Sorry Office Depot, you are great for office furniture, pens and paper, but not residential leases. Hire a professional to have a proper residetnial lease current to Florida Statutues made up for you.
1. All parties must sign the lease. Provide the tenant with a copy (we would recommend doing that via email).
P.S. - Do a mid lease walkthrough 60-100 days into the lease. This will A) Ensure the tenants are taking good care of the property and B) Show the tenants that you are a responsible landlord and the tenant is more likely to stay a great tenant.
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If you know someone who has a rental property and needs leasing and/or property management help, have them call us 407-434-9173.
Orlando Realty & Property Management
708 E. Colonial Dr., #201, Orlando, FL 32803
Office: 407-641-5049 Fax: 407-429-3857
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