Process of moving tenants into and out of a Rental Property

[Joey Fontenot III]

Hey Guys

I wanted to get all of the landlords feedback on how they handle the move-in process and move-out process for tenants in their rental properties including, how the process is outlined in a lease, what occurs on the day that they move in, and what occurs on the day they move out?

Thanks

[Arthur Garcia]

Hey Joey,

I managed my first two properties for the better part of 2years, but I have since gone on to hire the work out, but I'm posting what I did below:

1. Move-in: Before the new tenants moved anything thing in the property, I did a detailed walk through with them. During that time we took photos of all the areas of the house - rooms, major appliances, window ac, etc. I have them note any areas that were damaged or in need of repair. After we did that, I went through my "rules of conduct" agreement. This is separate than the lease. This agreement outlines noise levels, what repairs they are responsible for, which repairs I am responsible for, when to call me for minor repairs (8-5pm, M-F) and what number to call in case of an emergency, etc. Then I had them sign everything and gave them the keys.

2. Move-out: I did an through walk through (took photos) of the entire property and noted which items had to be repaired or cleaned. I hired the work to be completed within that same week and then I sent a roll-up of expenses to the previous tenant along with the security deposit balance.

Joey, a good rule of thumb is to document everything! In case you get called in court, you want to have everything ready. Plus, you'll also sleep better at night.

There is a TON more that goes into being a landlord. I would recommend buying as many books as you can on the subject, learn the tenant/landlord laws in your state and trying connect with other LLs in your market. The skill of being an effective LL is more of an art than a science.

Happy investing!

AG