This is a fee charged to you every time a unit is rented.  The actual cost, varies per management company but we have seen fees as high as half a month’s rent and as low as $500.  Pros:  Usually, companies who charge a lease up fee have a lower overall management fee.  Also, companies that charge a lease up fee …

As a rental owner, you likely have your handyman, electrician, and plumber on speed dial, but what other vital contacts (and phone numbers) do you need to have in your phone? Repairs You should use a variety of repair services. As much as you like to use the one handyman who does “everything”, it is good to have someone for …

A little bit of turnover is always good so that you can “freshen up” your properties. But low turn over is better because it removes one of the major variables of property management, new tenants. Chances are you’ll choose a good one, but if you have a good tenant already, why open yourself up to the possibility of getting a …

In California, there is a requirement that to remove someone from their residence, it must be a just cause eviction. Which means you have to have a constructive violation of the lease to remove a tenant from their apartment. There are minor exceptions like remodeling of a unit or moving in a family member. These require you to pay the …

Choosing the right vendors is going to be a key part of your ability to manage your income property effectively. Property Managers are at a distinct advantage in this category. Since we have to call out for numerous repair calls on a regular basis, we have a larger pool of work to judge a vendor. You should be looking at …

In the recent Long Beach Post article, Tyler Mehl (Belmont Shore Land Company co-owner) describes some of the challenges property owners, and tenants are facing during the coronavirus (Covid-19), and the relief that is likely in store for them. Original Article: While local relief is in store for renters, property owners look to the feds for help – Long Beach …

It can be difficult to ascertain whether the problem rises to the level of your involvement or is it bad enough to get someone evicted. For minor issues, we always advise tenants to address the situation between themselves. They are playing their music too loud, they are smoking to close to your window are types of issues that tenants should …

The following represents my personal opinions based on 40 years of experience owning, renovation, brokering and managing residential income property.  I have rented to thousands of tenants and have managed for hundreds of owners in addition to my own properties.  I hope the following will help you avoid the mistakes that cost you time and money. Picking the wrong tenant …

Unfortunately, there are a lot of tenants who live beyond their means. A large car repair bill or unexpected medical bill can cause a large financial hardship to a significant amount of tenants. What do you do with these tenants? Every tenant will be different. There are a few general rules you should stick to. Never let any tenant get …

Choosing the right tenant seems like an easy task.  But, not only can it be quite difficult, it is possibly the most important decision you will make in property management.  Especially if you consider all the new laws preventing property owners from removing unwanted tenants.  When you are choosing a tenant, you have to consider that they can be your …