references and make sure those applicants have done a good job living in other rental properties. I tend to think of property managers are an extra layer of protection for you and your property.
We can help protect your property from damage by doing a thorough tenant screeningand collecting the right security deposit. We always let owners know that when you have a rental for a long period of time, unfortunately when the tenant leaves, you may have a little more to do than the deposit covers. But with investment also comes risk. We give you some protection against that risk. Having a documentation process in place is essential. This will help you determine how to handle damages. Make sure you do a very thorough move out inspection. Check every drawer, every window and every blind. Take a full set of pictures to document the condition. The pictures will be very helpful if you find you have to go to court to dispute the damage. It will also help you if the tenant comes back and insists he left the place clean or removed all his belongings. You can show him the pictures of the barbeque that was left on the back deck or the dirt that was found in the kitchen.
After a good move out inspection, you can carefully weigh what problems may be simple wear and tear, which the owner is responsible for, and which problems might be damages that the tenant is responsible for. Another way to minimize your damages is to inspect the place regularly.
When you do annual inspections, conduct a thorough move out inspection and do good screening up front, you will have an easier time managing your deposits and damages. Remember that a good property manager can help you protect your investment and avoid or minimize the risks involved. If you have any questions, please contact us at Fox Management.