Managing rental properties looks great on paper, but it’s not as simple as just purchasing a property and renting it out. It takes a lot of time and energy to manage rentals successfully. The time commitment varies depending on the number of properties and tenant turnover.
As a landlord, you will need to manage all aspects of the business—from finding a good investment property and repairing it to getting tenants and keeping them in the property. It is important to know what you’re in for before taking on this responsibility.
Landlords need to be able to communicate well with their tenants. They must be able to diplomatically address complaints and draw the line when it comes to unreasonable demands (like refusing to pay rent past the due date without paying a late fee). Landlords must also understand state landlord-tenant laws and follow fair housing guidelines.
You will need to keep up with the costs of owning and operating a rental property, including mortgage payments, insurance premiums, and property taxes. You will also need to set aside money for unexpected expenses, such as a new roof or a major plumbing repair.
Tenants often have questions about their rent, policies and procedures. If you are not able to answer these questions promptly, you may lose a tenant or experience a delay in receiving rent payments. It’s best to establish clear policies upfront, such as a set rent collection period and whether or not you will charge a late fee. managing rental properties