All Forum Posts by: Shannon M.

@Brandon Mattila Honestly I wouldn’t do it! You’re better taking that money and investing in your own business ground up! There are so many resources out there to learn from and if you already are in real estate just do some networking and you’d be surprised how quickly you can acquire 11 properties.

@Lee Ripma Good to know! Apparently I didn’t dig into their services deep enough. I was really looking into Cozy because their site seems clean and intuitive. I’ll have to explore TenantCloud more.

@Peter M. Thanks for your input. That’s not a bad idea using google forms. I really like the idea of Cozy but like you I’m leaning on hard copies as most applicants don’t bother applying without viewing the property anyway.

I have been using Rentprep for credit and background checks but am considering using Cozy or TenantCloud as it seems more and more applicants prefer to apply online for convenience. The trouble I am having is their application is very basic. My current application has disclosures that are custom to my properties. I also like to list minimum qualifications before the signature line to avoid any misunderstandings. I’m sure I could email these, however I feel it’s best to have a signature agreeing to the terms. I can see someone who doesn’t qualify coming back disputing they didnt fully understand what the qualifications were. Has anyone found a solution to this?

Did you have them sign an agreement stating terms on when they would be moving in and if it would be non refundable? If so, follow the terms within that agreement. 

If not, my guess would be you’re likely going to have to return their deposit. 

We ran into the same problem. We started firm on no pets but had such a small pool that we ended up budging on it. We gave the option to pay a $200 non refundable fee or $25 monthly fee (for a six month lease).I just wrote up a pet addendum stating it was a non refundable fee.

@Joe Splitrock Yes lesson learned! 

@Nathan Gesner Thank you those are all great suggestions. I’m hoping the ozone machine works as well as cleaning the walls. If not, pulling the carpet up it is! 

@Vern M. using black lights is a great idea! Thanks for the tip!

We purchased a property that previous owners had recarpeted and painted but has an awful urine smell. I suspect they allowed pets and didn’t seal the floor boards. I have just rented it a week ago and new tenants are complaining about the awful smell. Anyone have any tips on illuminating/reducing odors?