How to be a good landlord

The job of a landlord can be challenging at times. There are many little things to keep track of at once. This is especially true if you’re managing properties on a larger scale. On the other hand, you might just be new to the rental process and don’t know where to start. In any case, you should learn how to be a good landlord. Many landlords out there only care about their profits, but there’s much more to it than that. Excalibur Moving is one of the best moving companies in Maryland, and we have worked with dozens of landlords in the past. Below, we’ve collected some key advice you should know.

You can be a good landlord by helping your tenants settle in a new area

Moving to a new city or neighborhood can be a scary experience, as you probably know. A new home and surroundings become overwhelming quickly. This is where you come in. Once movers Bethesda, MD have done their job have a talk with your new tenant. Provide them with some basic information on the area:

• where to find a grocery store
• directions to a pharmacy
• which areas they should steer clear of
• the proximity of hospitals, fire dept, and other services
• what are the good restaurants and bars in the neighborhood
• what kind of parks and outdoor recreational areas are nearby

Maintain your property

One of the most important things about owning rental properties is maintenance. It’s in your best interest to keep your properties looking good and functioning. Take each maintenance request seriously and try to resolve it promptly. Ignoring issues just leads to more problems later on. Hire trustworthy workers and handymen. Alternatively, if you’ve got skills do small repairs yourself. Additionally, if your tenants are asking about a particular service help them set it up. After a move, they might require things like storage services or unpacking. Give them a helping hand in times of need and they will remember it.

Keep a clear line of communication

Your job isn’t to just sit around and collect money. A decent landlord will always be there for their tenants. Communication is key in any relationship, business and personal. Emergencies can arise at any time and it’s important you’re available for contact. Make sure your tenants have multiple ways of contacting you: phone, emergency line, email. Additionally, don’t wait days to respond. Nowadays there are also apps and many landlords communicate with their tenants through social media. On moving day, consider staying close by, as residential moves often lead to injury and property damage. Your tenants will appreciate it.

How to be a good landlord is much harder than many people think. Owning properties is a huge responsibility, not to be taken lightly. You need to know the law and where to draw boundaries while maintaining a good relationship. This job certainly isn’t for everyone. If you have good organizational skills, give it a shot.