Rental inspection dilema?

[Paul Zanger]

I have a Section 8 renter and my current mgmt company emailed me that the Dept of Housing is asking if I plan to increase the rent. I wanted to find out how well the tenants are taking care of the place before I decide and asked if they could do an inspection. They said they charge $150 to inspect and would provide pictures along with a report.

They also said I am welcome to do a walk through. I am out of state but my mom lives near the rental. How should I handle as I would like to know how well the place is being taken care of... should I just hire my mom to take a look or should I use mgmt co? Thanks in advance for your input!

[Cal C.]

Not quite sure who "they" is- the PM or HUD? I think you meant the PM company. The chances of me ever paying a PM company $150 to inspect a property they are managing (and are supposed to know how well at least to some extent the tenants are keeping up the place) are slim to none. Today is a great day to look for a new PM company. I'm sure they (the PM company) have all kinds of other crazy fees too.