Keys, Locks, and Locksmiths

The importance of finding a good locksmith, following local codes, and a clever way to save money

What types of properties should you be buying?

As you think about becoming a real estate investor, you probably have an idea of the kinds of properties that you want to buy and rent out. Perhaps you picture yourself managing single family homes. And not just any old homes -- you want to own luxury properties with amazing design and features. Or perhaps …

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Another insurance issue property owners need to be aware of…and why it matters

In the past, I've written about several insurance issues that I've learned about as a landlord: the importance of a certain detail (A quick tip to avoid an insurance nightmare), how misleading the term 'renter's insurance' is (Another insurance mistake to avoid), and even the pros and cons of buying an additional warranty (Should you …

Should you lease to an ex-pat?

I try to buy properties in desirable areas, and take great care to maintain them, so quite often I get applications from ex-pats (workers from other countries that have been transferred by their companies, often for several years).  Should you consider renting to an ex-pat?    The answer is complicated. There are several universal issues …

Running your rental business: An easy, sneaky, and efficient way to check up on your property

As a property owner, you're probably worried about if your renter is taking good care of your investment.   Sure you can drive by the property and get a feel for its condition, but you likely won't be satisfied with that!  I know that I'm not.   So, how can you get onto the property to have …

Starting and running your rental business: another insurance mistake to avoid

I have an acquaintance that I'll call "George".  George was relocated and decided to rent out his property rather than sell.   He diligently called his insurance company and purchased renters insurance, signed the paperwork, paid every year, and didn't give it another thought. About now alarm bells should be going off in your head.  Why? …

The Landlord List: Information to leave with your tenants

When you are checking in your renters, they will be overwhelmed with information from you, in addition to all the stress of moving.  Even if you go through these items when you meet with them, leaving printouts of instructions will be invaluable to them.  Plus, if they know how to take care of your property, …

Running your rental business: Should you set up a separate property management company?

Maybe!  Having your properties and management duties separated into different companies can have many advantages. The main advantage of creating a management company is that you can easily deduct office expenses (even if that's a home office), vehicle expenses, and employee costs.   You can arrange healthcare for your employees, and set up retirement programs.  A …

Starting your rental business: Should you buy a fixer-upper for your property?

    You may be considering buying a "fixer-upper", dated property, or property in distress to fix-up and use as your rental property.  Before you jump in, there are many things that you need to consider! First, what kind of market are you in?  Are you in a market where hardly any properties are available, …

Starting your rental business: The importance of a home inspection

You know the saying "buyer beware."  This is true, not only when you buy your personal residence, but is equally important when you buy an investment property!   There are several reasons to make a home inspection part of your home buying experience: identifying issues evaluation of the seriousness of issues possibility of negotiating the price …