If my Tenant's rent checks bounce, what can I do?

First off, make it common practice to demand certified funds at move-in. You do not want to accept a personal check to cover security and first month's rent because, if it bounces, you are stuck with a Tenant and no money. In the event a Tenant's rent check bounces, you have several options.

First, call the Tenants bank to verify funds are available. If the funds are available, immediately take the returned check (or a copy from your bank) to the Tenant's bank and demand certified funds to cover the check.

My Tenant wants to paint my rental, should I allow them to?

This is a tough one because it is a decision only you can make. But before you give the go ahead, understand the possible issues that you may encounter down the road. First off, do not expect a professional painter to do the job; you may end up with painted trim, windows, ceilings and even floors! If you have invested in expensive crown moulding or hardwood floors, the answer to this question should be no. Both can easily be ruined with paint and fixing the damage can become quite costly.

Also, you must consider the color choices the Tenants may make. Red, for instance, is all the rage these days thanks to HGTV however it is nearly impossible to cover with just one coat of primer and paint.

If you make the decision to allow the Tenant to paint, get everything in writing! Have the Tenant sign an addendum to the Lease stating that you are allowing them to paint, the date this is agreed upon, any specific color restrictions and details regarding repainting the unit at the end of the Lease. Make sure the Tenant signs this, as well as you, and keep a copy for your records. This will come in handy if the Tenant violates the agreement or does not meet their obligations upon move out.

My sister is having a rough time, should I rent to her until she can get back on her feet?

Though your intentions may be good, your obligations to family can blur your needs as an investor in rental properties.

First consider what got your sister in this position to begin with. Will she be able to afford the rent?

If not, will you be able to carry the weight of an extra mortgage, insurance and taxes? Who will cover the utilities?

Not to mention, if she can't pay, will you be able to evict your sister? Avoid a family feud and rent to someone better qualified (and not in your family tree!)

Should I include lawn maintenance in my lease?

Cutting grass may seem an easy task for a Tenant when they sign a lease, but when the summer heat comes around it can quickly turn into an unwanted chore. And if you have an HOA, an unkempt lawn can result in more than an eyesore, it can lead to expensive fines and unwanted aggravation.

Consider this relatively inexpensive service an investment in your property.

Take referrals from neighbors, friends or family, compare prices and choose the one that fits your particular needs.

Also, offering free lawn maintenance can attract more interested applicants!

Should I let my Tenants drop off their rent at my home?

Unless you live within walking distance of the rental, or you only have one Tenant, we suggest getting a P. O. Box and requiring your Tenants to mail in their rent.

Allowing Tenants to pay their rent at your personal residence can leave you vulnerable to Tenants 'dropping by' with complaints, paying rent at midnight, or knocking on your door to solve disputes between roommates and neighbors.

Another major factor to consider is safety. Keep in mind that, while most do not rent to people they are afraid of, Landlord/Tenant relationships can change very quickly during an eviction and often times it can become personal.

Save yourself the unnecessary worry and have your Tenants mail in their rent.

test

test