Tuesday 4 October 2011

Residential Property Rentals

Deciding to let or rent a property is a big decision—one that you don’t want to take lightly. As a property manager, you want to ensure that your tenants will be respectful of the space and will pay their rent on time; as a renter, you want to ensure that you’re dealing with an honest property manager who will properly maintain your rental and keep it in tip-top condition.

Tips for a Great Rental Experience

  • Understand supply & demand: In metropolitan areas, most properties operate on a 12-month lease period, which runs from September 1 to August 31. This is especially true in areas near colleges and schools. The closer to September 1 and the fall season, the higher the likelihood that landlords will be open to negotiation. However, there will also be fewer properties available, the longer you choose to wait.
  • Understand the jargon: Depending on your past experiences renting, you may come upon some new terms or rules in your lease. Understand the differences between leases (which are binding contracts) and tenancy at will, in which the tenant does not sign a lease but instead agrees to pay rent at a particular interval.It may help to take classes in real estate, contracts, or law. If you're looking for a good online class, we recommend this site as a resource: http://www.onlineclasses.net/
  • Know your rights: Watch out for unreasonable fees or required deposits. The amount a landlord can require from new tenants varies by state, but first month’s rent, last month’s rent, and a security deposit are usual.

Tips for a Great Letting Experience

  • Know your limits: Letting a property can be a great way to generate more income. While doing it yourself may save you money, you should be honest with yourself in deciding if you’re really willing to take on the responsibilities of maintaining a property and interacting with tenants. Those with business degrees or real estate training may be better equipped.
  • Choosing a property management company: While managing the property yourself will be tough, you also don’t want to find yourself allied with a shady property management firm. When deciding on a firm, ask for references, and learn exactly what services the company provides. Ask if they have around-the-clock maintenance services, if they are bonded and insured, and how they manage clients’ funds (if they are stored in individual accounts versus a large trust).
  • Keep accurate and thorough records: To greatly decrease your stress later on, keep separate and accurate financial records about your property rental from the beginning. This is useful for tax purposes and for estimating the financial gain you are getting from your rental.


Appleton Estate Agents Maidenhead provide residential property services.
Letting Agents Maidenhead provide residential property rental and management services. Bookmark & Share