Deciding on renting out your home or condo is no easy task. It requires patience and perseverance, and a lot of responsibility. You do not just find a tenant and let it be. You need to ensure that you obtain the right person to rent out your place at a rate you specify. However, if you play your cards right, renting out your place and becoming a landlord can be rewarding and a good way to make money without selling your real estate property. For first time landlords, coming prepared requires that you do your homework before renting out your property. To get your wheels turning, here are some important renting-out tips to guide you by.
Tip #1 – A Well-Prepared Property Attracts Numerous Renters
It is important to comply with required standards as prescribed by the law such as structural repairs, adequate ventilation and heating, safe electrical system, and other stipulations. Keep in mind that well-kept properties often get the highest nod among potential renters and, often, earn huge respect, too.
Tip #2 – Learn Your Landlord Obligations Properly
There are stipulated obligations required from landlords. In most states, the need to register your property for tenancy is essential for tax requirements. One of your main responsibilities, however, is to ensure that your tenant have a safe and functional living space. This means your rental property must have passed the specified standards stated by the federal and local housing code. This means plumbing, electrical and structural system, lighting, ventilation, and security systems must be in place. Repairs and maintenance must be shouldered by you, thus, when reimbursable when paid by your tenant. Keep in mind to give adequate notice of termination when you plan to cut-off the lease on your property.
Tip #3 – Learn About Your Rights
Never go to war uninformed of the terrain. As important as your obligations, you need to also know about your rights. This means receiving correct rent on stipulated due date, receiving added charges according to lease contract, annual review of rental contract, be informed of damage or any problems in the property, and subsequently, be given due notice on any planned repairs or home improvement. Protect your rights by putting this into writing. As a rule, make sure to have a valid contract before setting out a lease on your property.
Tip #4 – Always Check Tenant’s Payment Ability
Of course, your priority is to gain substantial income from your hard-earned investment. It is wise to check if your tenant can pay-up your rental rate. A reference from previous landlords or employers is a wise move. If you plan to accept students, call in the attention of parents or guardians as guarantors for the lease.
Tip #5 – Better Be Insured
Consider having a rental home insurance. This ensures that your home’s structure, medical expenses, legal fees and loss of rental income is covered when needed. Encourage your tenants to buy an insurance suited for them as renters, too.
Tip #6 – DIY or Professional Real Estate Agent
Advertising a rental property on your own may sound a noteworthy job but it can also be quicksand if not handled right. For first-time landlords, having the assistance of professional real estate agent can help cut down cost involved while increasing your chances of finding a tenant quickly and efficiently. Most real estate firms or independent agents usually do background checks on potential tenants to protect their reputation in the market. If possible, choose one which can also perform managerial functions for your property.
Renting out your home for the first time can be both exciting and overwhelming. This, however, is one lucrative deal that you should not miss if you have a house, a condo, an apartment or even a room to spare. In all these, having a professional (attorney, accountant and real estate agent) to give you sound advice and point you to the right direction will ensure great rewards.
