All Forum Posts by: James B.

I'm amazed at the great responses. I'm glad I asked bc I learned a few new things. THANKS!

I've been told I ask too many questions and don't want prospective renters to feel I'm giving them the third degree. What are the best questions to ask a new potential tenant responding to an on-line rental listing?

Also is craigslist still the best place to post a home for rent?

TIA!

I wouldn't say the calls are to change a light bulb but somewhat more pressing like “I can see light thru an interior door at the top” or a hear a faint scratch in the wall by the attic, doorbell sticks, garage door is erratic. Does anyone charge tenants for these type of calls/trips?

I'm having trouble communicating to the tenant when to call me for an issue. Lately it seems I get a call for small issues they can easily handle and I run over to fix it. How do I get them to resolve easy things and not call me every time they hear a creek or odd noise? I do want to know when there’s an issue and be kept in the loop.

TIA!

All good replies - Thank you! I see I have a few items to work on as I do not know exactly what Ohio requires.

A tenant wants a walk through more than 30 days before leaving so they know what needs to be corrected in order to get their full deposit returned. I'm fine with that but am concerned if they do everything I see and later when all of their belongs are gone there's an issue am I doing the right thing. It's all spelled out in the lease but I still want to be amicable. Any thoughts or suggestions?

Is anyone surveying current tenants wants/needs/impressions? If so, what medium are you using to poll the tenant? I'm finding communication is huge in understanding what good tenants want. Would they pay a higher rent in return for upgrades, tent to smaller needs, resolving other issues. I have plenty of questions but wanted to hear your thoughts first. I was going to use a 1-10 scale to gain a better understanding, Any thoughts, ideas or concerns?

TIA!

A tenant signed a 2-year lease and it makes no mention of rent increase in the agreement. The expenses have increased quite a bit and they are high maintenance. Can the rent be increased before the end of the 2-year agreement?

I would make sure your rental price is realistic. I wouldn't do it for break even. Rents are rising fast. If you can make a good profit and values are increasing then do your homework and find a good tenant. Make it a point to visit every 3 months to make sure it's being cared for properly.