Self managing and renting to tenants

[Mansi Kothari]

Hi there, 

I am ready to rent out two apartments after extensive renovations on my first rental property in Jersey City, NJ. After having inherited some uncooperative tenants who caused a lot of stress and agony last year, I am a little nervous about finding new tenants. 

I have read Brandon Turner's book and others on managing rental property  and understand how to screen and run background checks. But I am still uncertain what the best way to find great tenants. Do I take pictures myself and run an listing on an rental website? Is one website better then others? Should I be on all of them? Appreciate any thoughts and advice from all the wisdom here on BP! 

Thanks so much!

Mansi

[Chris Sellers]

Mansi,

Congratulations on the first property!  You've done you homework, time to jump in.

I love to copy others.  Find a professionally listed place that looks great in your market.  Advertise like them.  If they're on Craigslist, Hotpads, Zillow and Rent.com; do the same.  Take pictures like theirs.  Use a yard sign like theirs.  Benefit from their knowledge (until you build you own preferences).  

Be ready to go with the application, lease agreement, etc.  You'll do great!

Good Luck!

Chris