All Forum Posts by: Bob Drew

They complained that the water doesn't stay hot for too long. I've lived in that house and know that it's in a working condition. Its not new but does it's job. Sounds like they want it replaced.

Should I be taking a compromise approach agreeing to some items? I hope it doesn't encourage them from continuing to complain.

Legally am I covered if they stop paying rent?

I am a newbie landlord with my first tenants who moved in last week.

Today I get an email asking for a list of items to be fixed (from ceiling fan to water heater to hinges on the door). They are asking if they can get it fixed and deduct it from the next months rent.

I know some of the appliances are not brand new but they are in a working condition. But bringing up a hinge on the electric panel is absurd.

How do I approach this request? There's no way I can fix all the items but want to show good faith in fixing some of them. But the tone in the email is concerning. 

I am a newbie landlord renting out my first townhome. I've been scouring the web for a copy of a lease that can be used in suburban Chicago area. The popular one that's being used here has no clause for the early termination of the lease.

What is the standard policy if the tenant terminates the please before it ends? Where can I find a copy of the lease agreement I can use that has this policy in place.

Thanks

So, the day I take the Security Deposit, it appears I have 2 options - either have them sign the lease or have them sign a "Deposit to Hold"?

Hi all,

I am a newbie landlord that needs some help. A young couple screened successfully and I am interested in moving forward with the process with them. They'll only be able to move in on March 24. My questions:

1. Should I take the security deposit from them or closer to the moving date?

2. When should I do a walk through of the house and handover the keys?

3. How do I calculate the rent between March 24 and April 1? Will that rent be due on March 24 or should I collect that rent now?

4. The HOA requires them to buy renters insurance. Do I wait for all that paperwork to be done only after I give them the keys?

Thanks

Thanks Andrew and John. 

Where can I find a template for the move in condition report? Do I need to print the pictures out and get them signed by the tenant as well? 

I am a newbie landlord and am renting out my first property. Had a showing yesterday and the lady noticed a loose cabinet door in the kitchen and stain

on a small portion of the ceiling. She wanted to make sure that she wouldn't be charged for it when the lease ends. How do I legally document

the current state of the house (I have made several upgrades such as granite countertops, refinished hardwood etc) and protect both of us when the lease

expires and I have to refund the deposit?

Thanks in advance