All Forum Posts by: Sarah West

Hello, we had a tenant move out recently and are working to get the security deposit refunded within the 14-day window as stipulated by AZ state law. I have a few things I am hoping to get some guidance on if possible:

1) Can itemized deductions just be the quotes for things needing fixed/ cleaned? Or do I have to actually have the work completed already and paid for with receipts to include in the itemized deduction?

2) If the lease that the tenant agreed to included them maintaining the front yard/ landscaping - is it reasonable to deduct a 1 time yard clean-up from their security deposit? 

3) Aside from washing the walls or getting a full repaint quoted, would it be reasonable to deduct the expected cost of "Kilz" paint/odor sealant brand for effected square footage? We are trying correct cat odors and damage unfortunately. 

4) do you provide the itemized list and then once they agree you get the money to them or can this be done in one step and not be up for negotiation or tenant approval?

Do you all typically cut a cashier's check for security deposits and send through certified mail? I don't think I have the ability to refund any position of the deposit electronically. 

Thanks in advance, learning a lot! 

Ricardo, I love that you are thinking of the community and trying to balance out all options. I don't have anything in this particular market, but glad there are people like you that do. Good luck with everything!

Ricardo, I love that you are thinking of the community and trying to balance out all options. I don't have anything in this particular market, but glad there are people like you that do. Good luck with everything!

Hello Bryn! We converted out Primary to a rental a couple years ago. I would suggest looking up similar rentals in the area to see what the trends are and what features are offered at the price point you are expecting. Do other rentals in the area have older carpet and not pristine landscaping? I think it's okay to not have a deluxe backyard, see what the market is demanding.

We didn't want to or have the funds to do a full renovation, Here are some things we did when we got our primary ready to rent:

-Tore out fiberglass tub and surround in master bedroom

-Had new tub and tile surround put in (felt nicer for primary bedroom suite)

-New toilets and all new faucets

-Hired guy to resurface all kitchen and bathroom countertops

-Took down popcorn ceiling and had resurfaced/ painted

-Neutral paint and trim throughout (had different colors all over prior)

-changed out washer hook-up valves to prevent issues 

Things I wish we would've taken care of:

-regular yard maintenance hired out and baked into rent

-LVP flooring throughout (kept mix of tile and carpet)

Just did final walkthrough and got keys this morning for tenant moving out. More to learn, more to come!

Last thought - windows is a safety thing, they need to function in case of fire escape? Check state laws maybe

Good Luck!

@Cecil Gomes congratulations man!! Always cool

To see what other local people are making happen!

Welcome, advice - get preapproved with a lender if you are serious - wishing you the best of luck in our crazy market!

Good luck man - are you trying to obtain properties? It's crazy out here right now!

Welcome @Sherrie Berry , I am new as well! Morning Coffee + learning sounds like a great start to the day. What method are you interested in to reach your goal, and are you looking at doing it locally there in Michigan?

@Evina Nonato Congratulations! those are both awkward placements, I imagine there is a window to the Left of the sink where the counter ends? Best of luck but looks like a great start!

@Account Closed , I do need to check out more podcasts (for a variety of subjects) my eyes are getting worn out!