Self Managing Properties

[Gerald Turner]

Hi BP I am about to start self managing one of my units. What is some advise you can give me? For example the best types of leases, the type of software to use for screening and setting up online auto pays like COZY or Others. Please give me your advise and any other helpful information that I can use please. Thanks!

[John Underwood]

Most of my tenants deposit rent directly into my bank account. One uses ACH and several use Zelle.

I use Zillow or residentresearch.com for background checks.

I train my tenants to make the rent on time or pay a late fee or have an eviction filed against them. I DON'T chase rent.

I handle everything via text. I text my handyman or AC guy. Easy to manage for my many properties. I keep my handyman fairly busy with routine repairs.

I started out with a fairly boiler plate lease. I have tweaked it when I have a problem or see an article like the one on BP "25 clauses you must have in your lease". Called something similar to this.