As part of good property management, you need to ensure the properties you manage, stay in good repair. And that involves getting your tenants to adhere to the rules of engagement you have laid out. However, tenants can sometimes get confused if there are a lot of complicated rules regarding rentals. Or if your rules are quite different from those at the last property they rented. So, here’s how to approach property management rules to keep tenants and employees happy, while protecting your properties.
Property Management Rules – Why Review Them?
First, examine the existing property management rules of engagement in place for the properties you manage. Different rental property management companies use different rules to manage their rentals and ensure their properties stay safe and well-maintained. Your rules might cover some of these topics:
- Changes to the interior of the property, such as hanging art or painting walls
- Adding to and maintaining the garden
- Putting up temporary structures, such as shade tents and pools
- Having other residents, such as pets or roommates.
- Maintaining the property, such as lawn mowing.
Having strict rules regarding the use of the property can reduce damage and keep your property looking beautiful. On the other hand, if your rules are too strict, you may drive potential tenants away or have many questions that take up a lot of unnecessary time. As a property manager, it is your job to learn from your tenant’s experiences and fine-tune rules as needed.
Make sure that the rules are clear in your lease agreement and on your informational documents for tenants. Whatever rules you put in place, be clear. “Having a successful tenancy requires good, clear, concise definitions of everybody’s responsibilities and rights.”
Keep The Communication Lines Open
Once you’ve set the rules, your tenants will still have questions. They may want to ask permission to adjust the rules or wish to clarify them. Create a user-friendly tenant portal that allows your tenants to ask questions and receive prompt answers. It is a fact that communication, negotiation, and a flexible attitude go a long way in attracting and maintaining quality tenants. For instance, you may choose to develop a policy that allows small pets. You can reduce the risks created by having pets on your property by creating clear and realistic pet policies. These should be included in the general lease agreement, which tenants need to respect. Another advantage of a tenant portal is its ability to store important documents for further review by your tenants. If your tenants have a question or need clarification about the rules on your property, they can get that clarification by reading the documents stored online. Make sure that these documents are clear, concise, and easy to find.
Send Reminders to Help Tenants Stay on Track
Most modern property management software allows you to set reminders to keep yourself on track. The same can be extended to your tenants. If it’s just about time to mow the lawn after a long winter, send out a reminder to your tenants. If it’s almost backyard grilling season, send out a reminder about any related rules or safety precautions for these outdoor activities. Setting reminders also provides an easy way to send out annual notices. You can schedule such reminders well in advance so that you don’t forget. And your tenants have sufficient notice to take the required actions.
Property Management 101 – Manage Your Maintenance
From spring pruning to maintaining porches and decks as the summer begins, you need a schedule to help you fulfill your maintenance commitments to your tenants. It is always a good idea to plan and coordinate your annual maintenance schedule with tenants. And subsequently. send out notices to your tenants advising them of when scheduled maintenance is to begin. That way, tenants can do their part to organize their homes and gardens and arrange for access if necessary.
How Can We Help?
Real Property Management Premier helps you to protect your valued investment. We provide comprehensive professional services to minimize your costs and maximize your income. We are 100% focused on providing quality residential property management services to property owners and residents. The specialists at Real Property Management Premier have the necessary knowledge and required experience. Give us a call today and discover total peace of mind.
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