I am a big advocate of education. I have many designations and have taken many property management courses over the years in order to improve with the idea of delivering better service. I have also taken the time to teach others which is another way to learn as the instructor has to stay ahead of their students.
I have noted that some in our industry think talking a good game, smiling, and making arguments why their methods are better seem to think that pursuasion and personality is more... Read Full Story
In California a landlord can raise the rent in any amount unless they live in rent controlled community like San Francisco, Berkeley, and some others. Most of California does not have rent control.
If the amount of the increase is 10% or less, the notice need only be 30 days. If the amount of the increase is more than 10%, the notice must be 60 days. If the landlord gives more than one increase in a year, the notice would have to 60 days when the cumulated rent increase totals go over 10... Read Full Story
Disclaimer: I own a large company by industry standards. (1000+ houses from three offices)
Some smaller property management companies will tell you that smaller is better. I personally believe that each company size has it's advantages and this argument should not be part of the discussion. Service is the issue, not how many people work there.
That said, most smaller operators would love to have more clients. That is just human nature. If the company stays small forever they may be very... Read Full Story
The fact that we have three offices puts us close to more property than most all other managemet companies, especially those with only one or no offices. What, some companies have no office? Yes, some property managers choose to work out of their homes to the detriment of their clients.
Detriment because tenants have no where to go to pick up a vacancy list or to meet with their property manager. How is the security of your files if everything is at home? Where are the computer backups... Read Full Story
Once a tenant has told you that they suspect mold, a prudent owner or property manager should do a few things immediately.
First, find out if there is a water leak or water intrustion.
Second, find out how large of an area has been detected.
Third, is there a musty smell?
Let the tenant talk and tell you all they know about the condition.
At that point you need to make a determination as to whether to hire a regular handyperson or a company with experience in mold remeditation. The larger... Read Full Story
I have noted that some banks are now contacting property managers about fixing up and renting some of their Real Estate Owned (REO) property. I had previously thought that banks could not do this but I am finding out that it may have been that they did not want to do it, but could.
Real Estate values in Sacramento have taken such a beating that it is no wonder banks are wanting to hold off selling for the time being. By renting out their holdings they can get a return on their investment... Read Full Story
Housing Now's Independant Living Assistance Program (ILAP) Emergency Utility & Rent Help Housing Now was awarded a Community Service Block Grant (CSBG) from the Sacramento Employment and Training Agency (SETA) in January 2008. This funding is being distributed from Jan.'08-Dec.'08, (while funds last,) to people with developmental disabilities, living in Sacramento County who can demonstrate emergency need of financial assistance to avoid eviction, avoid utility... Read Full Story
Our 4th Quarter Residential Rental Survey is now available for Houses for Rent, Duplexes for Rent, Apartments for Rent in the greater Sacramento area. You can also access this survey at our website along with past surveys by clicking this link: http://www.homepointe.com/owner_services_rental_survey.asp.
Is the sky falling or what? Last I looked at my own haunts, I noted that restaurants are still busy on weekends, but I can now walk in instead of needing a reservation. I still see that... Read Full Story
Our 4th Quarter Residential Rental Survey is now available for Houses for Rent, Duplexes for Rent, Apartments for Rent in the greater Sacramento area. You can also access this survey at our website along with past surveys by clicking this link: http://www.homepointe.com/owner_services_rental_survey.asp.
Is the sky falling or what? Last I looked at my own haunts, I noted that restaurants are still busy on weekends, but I can now walk in instead of needing a reservation. I still see that... Read Full Story
