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Updated 3 months ago, 10/07/2024

User Stats

17
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6
Votes
Jay Moore
6
Votes |
17
Posts

Newbie Room Rental

Jay Moore
Posted

Hello all. 

I plan to rent out my extra bedroom for extra money. I downloaded the BP lease agreement. Do you have any tips or resources recommended for getting up and running for a newbie landlord for just a room rental?

User Stats

144
Posts
96
Votes
Pat Aboukhaled
Agent
Pro Member
  • Real Estate Agent
  • Scottsdale, AZ
96
Votes |
144
Posts
Pat Aboukhaled
Agent
Pro Member
  • Real Estate Agent
  • Scottsdale, AZ
Replied

Hello @Jay Moore Renting out a room can be an excellent way to bring in some extra money, but I’ve found that there are a few key steps you’ll want to follow to make the process smooth and successful. 

1. Know the Local Laws Inside and Out

Before anything else, it's crucial to research the local housing laws in your area. Whether it's regulations on eviction, tenant rights, or property maintenance, being aware of these rules can save you from future headaches. Trust me, you don’t want to find out you’re violating a local ordinance after the fact-it can get messy and expensive fast

2. Customize Your Lease for Room Rentals

Even though you’ve got the BP lease agreement, I’d recommend tailoring it to fit your specific room rental situation. Clear expectations from day one will help you avoid misunderstandings. In my experience, tenants appreciate when everything is transparent.

3. Require Renter’s Insurance

Now, this might seem like overkill for just a room, but renter’s insurance is non-negotiable in my book. It protects both you and the tenant, ensuring their personal belongings are covered in case of accidents. Plus, it gives you peace of mind knowing you won’t be financially liable if something goes wrong.

Make Sure You’re Covered Too

Speaking of insurance, don’t forget about yourself! Double-check that your homeowner's insurance covers room rentals. I’ve seen cases where landlords assumed they were covered, only to find out they needed a specific landlord policy. It’s better to make the call and be sure.

5. Set Up Automatic Rent Payments

Gone are the days of collecting rent checks. Use online platforms like PayYourRent or Cozy to streamline payments. These systems not only make life easier for you but also for your tenant. Automated payments mean fewer late payments, and trust me, that’s a huge relief when you’re managing a rental.

6. Screen Your Tenants Thoroughly

Tenant screening is non-negotiable, even if it's for a single room. A solid background check can save you a world of trouble later.  

7. Establish Clear House Rules

Living with someone in close quarters can get tricky if rules aren’t clearly laid out. Decide on things like kitchen use, bathroom schedules, and noise levels early. In my years of experience, I’ve learned that setting these rules up front prevents small issues from snowballing into bigger conflicts.

8. Keep a Paper Trail

Always document everything-from payments to maintenance requests. You never know when you’ll need to refer back to these records, especially in case of a dispute. I personally use property management software to keep everything organized and it has saved me a ton of time​.

Following these steps will set you up for a successful room rental experience. If you’ve got more questions or need advice, don’t hesitate to reach out!

  • Pat Aboukhaled
  • (480) 531-8372
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Pat Aboukhaled
5.0 stars
397 Reviews

User Stats

8,423
Posts
5,041
Votes
Drew Sygit
Property Manager
Agent
#2 Managing Your Property Contributor
  • Property Manager
  • Royal Oak, MI
5,041
Votes |
8,423
Posts
Drew Sygit
Property Manager
Agent
#2 Managing Your Property Contributor
  • Property Manager
  • Royal Oak, MI
Replied

@Jay Moore why wouldn't you just put it on Airbnb and make more money?

Check your municiple statutes, but most allow you to Airbnb a room in your primary.

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Logical Property Management.
5.0 stars
1 Review
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User Stats

26
Posts
13
Votes
Clara Arroyave
Agent
  • Professional
  • Boston
13
Votes |
26
Posts
Clara Arroyave
Agent
  • Professional
  • Boston
Replied

Up and running:

Decide if furnished or unfurnished? If furnished then set up.

Decide how you want to handle utilities (included or shared)

What kind of roommate do you want - what would your offer look like?

Once you decide:

Take photos  - create the write up

List in the places you want to find your ideal client -roommate

Interview the people you'll be comfortable having at your home.

Lease and repeat!