On our blog today, I thought I’d share my list of things not to do when it comes to your Santa Cruz rental property. Everyone has a “Do” and “Don’t” list for property management and these are the top “Don’ts” from Portola Property Management.
- Don’t ever rent to family or friends. It might seem like a good idea for both parties, but it never works out.
- Don’t show up at your rental property without giving your tenants the proper 24 hour notice. This means you cannot even show up on the outside. People are often surprised by that. However, you cannot stop by to do a little yard work or to check out something in the storage unit. You need to give 24 hours notice to your tenant any time you want to access the inside or outside of the property.
- Don’t feel rushed when you advertise your property for rent and get someone who is just a little too eager. If you get an applicant who is flashing money and wants to rent your property immediately and move in right now, it’s a hugered flag. Follow all your policies and procedures so you’re sure you’re getting a well-qualified tenant in place.
- Don’t become your tenant’s friend, marriage counselor or therapist. Once you have a tenant in your property, the best thing you can do is keep some distance. You are their landlord only. Maintain a professional business relationship. This will make it easier for you if problems do arise at some point. You’ll need to enforce your lease, so stay professional with your tenants, and you’ll be okay.
These are the top “Don’ts” when it comes to staying out of trouble in the landlord business. If you have any questions, or you’d like to hear more about what you should and shouldn’t do as a landlord, please contact us at Portola Property Management, and we’d be glad to help.
