All Forum Posts by: Joy Remington

So I live in Oklahoma where my rent houses are. We had a massive storm today that left two full grown trees on top of a house. What steps do I take now? The tenant sent me pictures. I can't tell what damage they may have done to the roof or house itself. Do I get estimates on tree removal? Call the insurance first? Other ideas? 

Several months ago when my HVAC contractor showed up to take care of an issue at one of my rentals, he told me that the dog urine smell in the house was so strong he was afraid he might pass out. The tenant has been in the house for almost 4 years. He always pays his rent on time and I have had no issues with him. How do I let him know that he needs to take care of the urine smell? Do I tell him that it was my contractor that noticed it? Do I do an inspection of the house and then "notice" it? If so, what kind of inspection would I be doing? I have not done inspections, though I know some of you say that it's extremely important. Any other suggestions on how to address the smell would be appreciated. Should I just send a letter? Etc?

Thanks, Joy 

Love it. Just last week I had an old tenant contact me online regarding a house I have listed. She had put a stop payment on her last month's rent check when she had last rented from me. I didn't respond to her inquiry. Though maybe BP could give me some clever responses. Haha

25 is still pretty young and that seems more common these days. I have had some success accepting tenants like this and some non-successes. Usually in that situation with all good checks but only family/friends rental history, I use my gut.

When prescreening tenants, I often ask when they are looking to move. At that point, depending on their answer, I can tell them that we are able to hold the property for up to two weeks for the security deposit. If they agree to this (after full screening, etc), we always sign a holding agreement with them that states the property will be ready for them on the moving date and if they do not move in, the amount is non-refundable. I prefer this to signing a lease because at the lease signing, we go over all the details and exchange keys. 

I believe it is worth it to hold a property for a couple weeks for an excellent tenant. I also set a specific time period of two weeks so it is clear up front for them. That also gives me a rule of thumb so I don't hold a property too long and miss out on rental income. 

I have had great success using holding agreements.