What's Your Best Landlord "Hack" ?

[Brandon Turner]

People love "life hacks." A life hack is a simple strategy/process/tool/trick for improving your life in an unconventional way. For example: 

So... 

I am writing a post about "Landord Hacks" - it's the little things that a landlord can do to make their life easier, save money, etc.  And I need your help! 

So my question is: What is your best Landlord Hack(s) ? 

I'll give you a couple quick examples: 

1.) Have a hole in the middle of a hollowcore door? Rather than replacing, just buy a $5 mirror at Wal-Mart and screw it to the door. Not only does it hide the hole, it makes the hallway look larger and ads some decoration to a boring space! 

2. ) From @Darren Sager - Always write the paint color that a unit is IN the lease when you sign it. That way, when you need to repaint, you know exactly what color you used. 

So... your turn! What are your best Landlord Hacks? 

Go! 

[Stephanie W.]

1) I send birthday cards to each tenant with a $5 Starbucks card

2) I send a postcard to each 'door' once a quarter, asking them if there's anything I can do for them.

3) On a tenant's one year anniversary, I give them an 'upgrade' of their choice, within reason. It's usually something I would do when they move out anyway, I just get to do it with them there.

4.) I have five properties and eight doors, I've never had a move-out, a late payment or an eviction. Special attention works.