All Forum Posts by: Thomas Hayworth

Tellus is offering a free rental price report for all users. Just download the app and message support. I checked out my area and my rent price is right within their recommended range.

It will be interesting to see if more states follow suit. The amount of fake certificates out there has really gotten out of control.

Hi @Johnny Kim - We use the Tellus rental application/screening, and it's been thorough enough for us. My wife and I show the property ourselves, so we don't have experience with the rently box.

It seems like you could incorporate it though. As you're talking with your tenant leads in the app, you could give them the property address and instructions on how to operate the rently box. Hope that helps.

@Maksim Easley - Congrats on the purchase! Definitely have a lease. Even if you're just renting to a friend, having the terms of the agreement spelled out can help protect you and your property. A lease from Bigger Pockets would work, or you could check with your state's Association of Realtors.

For payment, you don't necessarily have to accept rent through checks or money order. Lots of people collect rent online these days. I use an app called Tellus and have been happy with how easy it is.

You mentioned accountants and tax deductions. This is a separate matter from your lease. I would encourage you to start keeping track of all your rental property expenses. Most of them are tax deductible, but only if you can report the exact numbers and keep track of your receipts. 

Welcome, Nathan! This is a great community. Glad you've joined us.

A basic pre-screening can save you a lot of time. Even something as simple as sending a templated email with basic questions (desired move in date, any pets, list your requirements, etc.) to people who respond to your listing can help you gauge their interest. Once you have applicants, you can do the real screening (credit checks, background, rental history, etc.)

Have requirements and stick to them. Make sure you apply the same requirements across the board and respect fair housing laws.

I tried Zillow Rental Manager and it was a little too basic for what I needed. I wanted better financial expense tracking for my properties. I'm using Tellus now and have been happy with it so far.

The carpet looks fine to me.

If the second story is true, she may be scared of a violent ex-boyfriend. I would wait to see the police report and double check to see if the times match up. If she can't produce the report she claims to have, then something is fishy.

@Account Closed  There are a lot of options to collect rent long distance. I use an app called Tellus. My tenants pay through the app and the money goes straight into my bank account. It's worked well for me so far.