Managing Rentals- Small issues , how to deal with it?

[Rik Patel]

Hi Everyone!

I just bought a new construction town-home last year for rent. I just had a new tenant call me saying the wall needs small touchups for paint along with some other small tasks. I have a property manager that takes care of just the leasing portion. It makes me wonder, if I were to buy properties out of state , how is everyone getting these small tasks taken care of? My tenant doesn't want to do it and no handyman (if available) will come out for small tasks. If a property management company were to take care of small issues, wouldn't they just find any company since ultimately their sending the bill to the landlord?

[Ray Harrell]

If it's touchup paint, I wouldn't do it. Painting is done upon move out. If you start responding to these little things they will call you for everything, including changing lightbulbs. Have a minimum amount for which you will respond or send a handyman. Tenants have to take care of minor repair and maintenance issues.