reducing rental liabilities in California

[Martha Maxim]

California has laws that can leave landlords on the loosing end of the deal. Like how it can take so long to get someone evicted. That is very frightening to me, since retaliation by wrecking your property is more likely. Any suggestions on how to protect yourself?

[Steve L.]

- Pick good tenants. I'd rather leave a house vacant versus renting to the wrong person.
- Take big deposits.
- Provide a good product. You can get multiple applicants.
- Trust your gut. If something seems off... don't do it. You will regret it later.
- Be Firm. If I don't receive rent or hear from a tenant, I knock on their door and see what's up.
- Budget for some mistakes and hire a professional for an evictions.
- Offer them money to leave. I know it seems counter intuitive, but it should be a math equation... if it's cheaper pay them to leave.