All Forum Posts by: Cecilia Ann Jones

Hello, can anyone recommend a really great accountant/tax attorney? I'd like help navigating tax laws pertaining to my new rental property in Baltimore, MD and with strategies for my next purchase. Thanks!

Thanks very much everyone for all the good suggestions! @Dan Maciejewski I really like the idea of open houses! The first one is scheduled for Sunday: https://pitina-stucky.homesale...

I want to do open houses every weekend until it's rented. So excited! I lowered the price and the security deposit, maybe too much, given the low inventory and market conditions. Besides, the place is SO much more beautiful and inspiring than all the run-of-the-mill, soulless renovations available. The right tenants will appreciate the difference.

@Sean Monahan I really love the idea of renting short-term to traveling nurses! This property doesn't have off-street parking; that could be a deal-breaker for nurses, given their schedules, but we'll see. I'm going to keep it in mind for my next Baltimore property.

Does anyone have any thoughts about how to mitigate the lack of parking? I thought of maybe finding a nearby lot with monthly agreements, but that isn't looking good. Or a neighbor that isn't using their space and would rent it; also not very likely; most neighbors have only one parking space and their using it. Street parking is manageable, but tight after 7 PM. I always find parking right in front; parking in Canton is easier than some of the other nearby neighborhoods.

@Michael Plante it's Baltimore, Maryland. The neighborhood is called Canton.

@Matt Bishop

Thanks everyone! It's good to hear the collective experience of our community. I really appreciate it! Yes, it's priced a little high. I looked at other recently-rented units with similar square footage, and it's in the range, but on the high side. Canton is a nice, fun and trendy neighborhood near the water, with lots of good restaurants and bars. Rents are going up. We think the place will appeal to young professional roommates, or a couples with children and/or an in-law. The main-level bedroom/bathroom suite is rare.

Perhaps the most significant drawback is that there is only street parking. One prospective tenant gave us that feedback, something we already had realized. There always seems to be plenty of free, unrestricted street parking very close to the front door, but many similar units have one off-street parking space.

I still wonder how reliable the process for collecting and routing inquiries is for all the websites? I can't help feeling that we're not hearing from all the interested prospective tenants. I've gotten reports showing high numbers of views and clicks, yet only 4 inquiries and 2 showings so far.

@Scott Mac, I definitely agree about getting rid of the green grass out front; I only first noticed it when I was there yesterday and I'll bring my gardening gloves and take care of it on my next visit. I liked your mock up too. Shutters and an awning would be great additions.

Hi, this is my first post since turning BP Pro a few months ago. I closed on my first rental property, a townhouse in the Canton neighborhood of Baltimore on 6/14. I am using a property manager, and there are listings through MLS and many other sites. I thought it would be rented by now, but there have been only 2 showings in 15 days. I fear that people are trying to request showings but there's some type of disconnect in the process. Does anyone have any advice?

If you want to see the listings, Google 800 S Ellwood Ave rent
 
Oh--and I also need a smart tax attorney, does anyone have a recommendation? 

Thanks!