SOLDbyNat.com in Monroe, GA - Do You Really Want to be a Landlord?

Congrats to this repeat client & friends (who throw the best get-togethers at their home)!

After building and living in this home for many, many years, it was time to move. Instead of selling, they went the route of renting successfully for many years. Finally, the day came when they decided to sell the house (which was one of the nicest split foyer's I've ever seen!). After some patience, this beautiful home SOLD!

I could write a post about "Making Sure You Pick the Right Lender" or "If the Lender starts acting sketchy, RUN!", because the buyer's lender put everyone through an ordeal. Especially the buyers. For example: They were relocating from Florida. They made a trip down to close, only to find out closing would be delayed another week or so. The equaled a trip back to Florida and a trip back to Georgia for the actual closing. SMH...

Instead, I'm going to dedicate this one to Homeowners who are thinking about becoming Landlords. This coming from a Realtor who has leased several properties for owners and has worn the "landlord" hat herself.

Here are

Top Ten Tips for Landlords

Courtesy of www.nolo.com

Here are 5 additional TIPS courtesy of ME...

1) While you want a good tenant (pays on time & takes good care of the house), be realistic. Requiring the tenant have perfect credit is a bit much. 

2) Don't be fooled by appearances. Thoroughly do background checks! I have had a family that I would have sworn would have been great tenants, break the lease, and left the house infested with fleas. Fleas that I unknowingly bought back to my house. It was an ABSOLUTE NIGHTMARE!

3) Be VERY clear in the lease. Be OVERLY clear in the lease. For a list of stipulations I put in my leases, email me. I'd be happy to share! Is the tenant responsible for any repairs? For example, repairs $50 and under? If a repair is needed, does the tenant call you 1st or do you want them to have the issue inspected and quoted before calling you? If they caused the damage, how is that handled.

4) At move-out, expect normal wear and tear. These are costs you have to factor in to being a landlord. If there is a scuff on the wall, you can't charge the tenant for repainting the whole house. On the other hand, there are requirements you can put in place for move-out. For example, require the tenant to have the carpet professionally cleaned and provide proof via a receipt.

5) Have a list of RELIABLE vendors on hand should the need arise. A plumber, electrician, handyman, etc. You don't want to have to scramble for these when an emergency arises. If you don't feel like handling any of this, have your property professionally managed.

Looking to SELL or LEASE your house? 

Give me a call!

404-857-2508

www.SOLDbyNat.com

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Natasha Bazile is a Realtor & Home Stager. She prides herself in being a guide to her clients and finds fulfillment in helping them achieve their goals.

Direct Phone: (404) 857-2508 
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