Keeping it legal: further thoughts on tenant selection criteria

As I'm going through another rental turnover -- and qualifying applicants-- I'm reminded on how important this step is, not only for choosing the best renters, but also to protect myself from possible lawsuits and legal trouble. Photo by rawpixel.com on Pexels.com In fact, this step is so important that this is my 3rd blog …

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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 …

A landlord’s debate: should you show your property while the current tenants are still there?

Unless you give up on being a landlord immediately, you'll be faced with renting out a property after you have already have had it rented out.  This presents a different set of problems than, for example, having your own house up for sale.  With your own house, you know that you can keep it clean …

Property owner math: When more is less

As a property owner, you've probably considered upgrades in an effort to secure higher rent and perhaps better tenants.  Maybe adding landscaping, installing new windows, adding lighting, or updating fixtures.  Hopefully you've done research to figure out if you can actually list that property for a higher amount after doing that improvement, or if your …

Running your rental business: Use established guidelines to clear potential tenants and avoid legal problems

Having an established list of criteria for each rental property/address will not only help you narrow your search for the perfect renter, but also will help protect you from legal issues from a prospective tenant who feels that you turned them down unlawfully. So how do you go about creating such a list, and what …