All Forum Posts by: Susan H.

@Sean Pedeflous

Like Holly, I'm a self-managing landlord in Fayetteville. And as Greg said, we're in peak leasing season.

How does the rent on this unit compare to the first unit in quality and rent price? You mentioned you consider this unit to be "nicer." Why do you think so?

If you'd like to message me the address (or the link on Zillow for the available unit), I'd be happy to share some ideas with you. ~Susan

Hi Andrew,

I own several single-family homes in Fayetteville. You are not required to pay upfront costs (and shouldn't, in my opinion.)

I require written verification from utility companies (water, gas, electric) that utilities have been assigned to Tenant effective the first day of occupancy; no confirmation = no keys and lease approval withdrawn). Tenants are responsible for all costs related to utilities.  [This and other information is included with the notification their application has been approved. It's also included in the Rental Qualification Criteria given to applicants.]

I provide approved tenants with the utility company information (name, phone #, website, etc.), as well as a link to https://www.fayetteville-ar.gov/4052/My-Fayetteville-Service... Since access to Internet service varies by location within/around Fayetteville, I encourage them to check with their preferred provider. Also, some utilities may require a deposit, so it's best that the tenants contact those utilities ASAP.  

I hope this is helpful to you! ~Susan

Mark, I have 3 SFHs in Fayetteville AR. I found and approved new tenants in January within 5 days of listing the home. If you send me a message, I'd be happy to discuss strategies that might help you. ~Susan

 My rentals are in a college town, so I see scenarios like this often. All adult occupants are named in my lease, and I include the statement that they are "jointly, severally, and individually bound by, and liable under, the terms and conditions of this Lease." 

My leases also stipulate that "Rent is to be paid monthly in a single payment for the full amount of rent due." I use an online payment portal, and partial payments and/or payments from multiple sources are not accepted. 

~Susan

P.S. If you haven't already, be sure to develop Qualification Criteria for each of your properties. I email a copy to interested individuals before scheduling property tours. (Sample available if you're interested.)

What county in Arkansas are you looking at? And have you looked at the Commissioner of State Lands website? (Also on FB.) They've been very helpful whenever I had questions.

I have three single-family rentals in Fayetteville. 

I use Patino's Painting for interior and exterior painting for my rentals as well as my personal residence. Professional, prompt, and reasonably priced. I also use It's Electric for all electrical work. Excellent work, and reasonable rates. Believe they also have a related company offering plumbing services (haven't used them yet). 

Send me a message for contact info.

~Susan

Sites like Zillow and Rentometer may also prove useful when considering rental averages. Like Ryan, I'm fairly aggressive in setting rental prices, and that's been a good strategy for us.

It also helps to consider where in Fayetteville you want to invest, and who your target market is. For example, although I have one single-family home within walking distance of the university, students are not my target market. Most of the homes in that neighborhood are owned/rented by professional couples, families, university staff and faculty, and a few retirees. And nearly everyone has dogs! <smile>

Best of luck in your search,

~Susan

New tenants (first time renting a single-family home) emailed after it had rained:

"Our yard is wet and there are some muddy spots. We don't like that."

I've worked with Matt Grigg at Arkansas Home Tech for my rentals. Professional, detail-oriented, and willing to explain anything and everything!