All Forum Posts by: Teresa F.

In DC, water can be transferred into a tenant's name.  However, it remains the responsibility of the owner.  However, my understanding is the result would be the same no matter what the utility.   In jurisdictions where I own in Maryland and Alabama, the water bill would follow the tenant. 

The local Property Management group had a Q and A with an attorney specializing in Landlord Tenant law.  My question:  Lease says tenant responsible for all utilities.  Water gets cut off because tenant doesn't pay.   The tenant sues the landlord for breach of habitability because there is no water.  What happens?  According to the lawyer, tenant wins. 

Today I attended a meeting where the Director of the Maryland Real Estate Commission commented on how they are becoming more viligent about flippers who fail to disclose material defects.  They are also pursuing rehabbers who failed to obtained permits or "drywall over mold."  In addition to the Commission, I am also on an attorney listserv.  There are more and more attorneys who have started specializing in suing rehabbers on behalf of the buyers of the rehabbed home.  While suits for shoddy workmanship or failing to disclose are not new, this seems to be on an uptick.  Anyway, check your GC's licenses, insurance, and show those permits.  

Hi Ron, Welcome.  I am in your neighborhood so feel free to say hi or ask questions.  Best, Teresa

Hi Bryan, No problem with a two year lease in DC.  However, while I love my D.C. Properties and my tenants, there are lots of tenant rights in DC so if this is your first rental, you may want to do a bit of research re rent increases, rights of first refusal, evictions, etc.  Best, Teresa

Hi Dana,  I recommend paying them.  Recognize that this is an inconvenience to them and offer to "treat them to lunch" while the photographer does the work or simply offer a flat sum for their time and trouble.  Good luck and wishing you a quick sale.  Teresa

Hi Dan, I manage a nice townhouse in Bowie 3/2 with granite kit/bath w/d and rented it last year for 2k had multiple applications.  Just an FYI, City of Bowie conducts its own rental license inspections.  Best, Teresa 

Hi Baltimore landlords.  I got a call from SocialServe.  They are looking for rentals at the request of Baltimore County.  I was told that there was a terrible fire and hundreds of people have been displaced.  You can call or email them to learn more.  Teresa

Yes.  Your wife will need to work under a broker.  You can look at the real estate commission website to get an idea of the rules she will be obligated to follow.  There are ethics rules, continuing education requirements, and whatever brokerage she may join will probably have additional rules.  Nice that you are being so supportive.  Teresa

Thank you Steve --  One of our Bigger Pockets members has been in touch with me and we are moving along.