All Forum Posts by: Maggie Ratner

In St.Louis, we have had an amazing amount of scams regarding rental homes on lockbox showings. The gist is the scammers gain access either copy your keys or leave a door unlocked then copy your add to FB at approximately $200 cheaper. Then they try to collect deposit and rent and move a prospect into the property.

They use google voice, the use fake or texting apps to shield their phone numbers etc.

My question is has anyone else come across this and have you put any safe guards in place to protect property or potential resident from the scam?

@Alex Alleva

The question is twofold what is it worth and what are people willing to pay? Comp rents are just that a benchmark! As a property manager and investor the question you must ask yourself is how much money will it take on the turn to obtain that market rate. If the amount to turn is less investment than the rent you are losing then the decision is made. If the make ready cost and vacancy cost will set you back then you will need to negotiate with renter.

The other thing, this conversation is best done face to face. My guess is if you really want market rate then you have to ask the renter to pay it. The issue is not emotional it’s financial.

@Kasay Mardis

My experience tells me to check your advertising and pictures! Are they inviting, description appropriate and message clear. You want to attract the prospect you are looking for- so create marketing for that person! Often we’ll not only check comps but create avatar of the ideal renter! Then we focus on what that renter wants and where they shop or hang out!

Second, are you reposting ads to keep them at the top of the heap!

Also, talk to other renters if you have them and ask if they have friends looking for a new space!

If you have specific businesses in area drop by with flyer- it can’t hurt!

Have you posted on FB?

I find that any issue worth addressing is best done in person! However, with that being said with the situation of the windows it’s a behavior although there are several indirect ways to address! Once you set up how you will communicate I would ask if texting is acceptable? If yes, I would text them a picture of the windows open with $$ signs and kindly remind them that if this doesn’t end they will see an increase due to utilities bill jump! In addition, then you have a time, date, stamp of how many times you’ve had to address and frequency.

It’s very easy to get yearly print out and if heating costs have increased it is not unreasonable for you to expect more in renewal increase- if renewing is an option.

Finally, smells. . .

It’s best to address at time of incident instead of assuming anything once you notice it - knock on door and address. That is a situation whereas; it’s best done at time of incident so that there are no accusations just facts. I smelled this at this time do you have a minute for you to come and see what I’m talking about so we can resolve!

Just my two cents!