All Forum Posts by: Katie Magoun

I agree with above that the plow guy shouldn't be asked to wait for tenants to move cars. When/if our tenants complain about the plows, we always clarify that parking is included at tenants own risk/will, and snow removal is provided by not guaranteed; it's up to the tenant to keep parking spot(s) empty if he or she wants it plowed.  (We had one particularly tough tenant who called, irate, because the plow had come through a few hours ago, and there were still 3 inches of snow in the driveway. It was still snowing. Right.) 

I do think your other points are grounds for considering other plow companies. Do you have any small businesses in the neighborhood that use plowing?  Give them a call to ask if they have a recommendation. If you get a strong nearby recommendation, it's an easy fix because you know he or she is in the area regularly. Be wary of big companies because they might be less inclined to worry about smaller accounts. 

Snow removal is a pain, and I know some Maine landlords who no longer include it in the rent. We walked away from a deal partly because there was no place to safely clear snow from the driveway. 

My advice is to try self managing first. There's nothing that says you can't start out self managing and then hire someone if it's not working out. 

I think SFHs are easier to manage ASSUMING (and this can sometimes be a big assumption) that your tenants are ideal. Given that you're relatively new to landlording, you may have a learning curve ahead of you, no matter what happens. But, that's a good thing IMO. Just go in with reasonable expectations, and be prepared to change your strategy if it gets too difficult/stressful. 

At $250k for a duplex, that certainly doesn't limit your markets much. Despite the red hot Portland market, you can still occasionally find a duplex for under $250k. (In fact, I believe there's one available now.) 

Before answering your question, I'd love the hear more about why you're looking at the price point (it's pretty high for a duplex in most markets); what are you looking for from this investment? Are you planning to owner occupy? (In which case it's important to factor in livability, cost of living, amenities, etc.) 

We don't do short term rentals, but those I know who do say that the year round market in Portland (and other pockets of coastal Maine) is accelerating rapidly. I have friends with STRs in Portland and South Portland who are regularly booked from November through May, a recent phenomenon for sure. Portland is getting a ton of positive press for the food and beer scene and it's really becoming a destination best enjoyed when the summer tourist crowd clears out. 

But like others have said, it's becoming an issue for property owners and neighbors. The city of Portland is starting to actively crack down on those who aren't in compliance with regulations (many!). South Portland keeps putting off this issue, but property owners are getting increasingly annoyed, so my gut is that it won't be put off forever. The rumor I heard is that SoPo wants to require that the property be a primary residence to register it for short term rental use with the city. 

It's all too speculative for my taste, personally. And I'm not sure how people do it long distance, but I know that plenty do.