Business Page
The DIY Landlord Book
Agent
4.7 stars
185 Reviews
About us
The DIY Landlord includes an educational book and landlord forms package. More resources are in the works! Author Description Nathan Gesner is a seasoned property manager with over 15 years of experience managing a diverse portfolio that includes residential rentals, self-storage units, and short-term rentals. Known for his contributions to property management discussions on platforms like BiggerPockets, Nathan uses his extensive background to teach landlords how to manage their investments well, protecting their property, income, time, and sanity. Book Summary The DIY Landlord is a comprehensive guide for rental property owners, especially those looking to manage their investments without hiring a property manager. The author covers the critical aspects of self-management, from setting up lease agreements and screening tenants to dealing with maintenance, evictions, and property inspections. He emphasizes the importance of detailed documentation, clear communication, and consistent enforcement of lease terms to minimize tenant disputes and protect rental income. The author presents real-life scenarios and strategies for navigating common challenges, like tenant screenings, handling security deposits, and managing tenant expectations. He also provides guidance on local landlord-tenant laws and explains how to avoid common pitfalls that can result in significant financial losses. The book encourages landlords to remain proactive, stay organized, and continually educate themselves on real estate laws and property management practices. Key Quotes 1. On Managing Well: "A well-managed investment will rent faster, make more money, have less turnover, and eventually sell for a higher price." 2. On Landlord Boundaries: "Set boundaries with your tenants, or they will call you at 9 p.m. on a Saturday asking permission to plant tulips when their question could easily wait until the next business day." 3. On Consistency: "If you make exceptions to your rules, the tenant may see you as weak and try to take advantage of you." 4. On Proactive Learning: "If you wait until a problem arises before you learn how to manage it, you will always be behind."
Specialties
Commercial
Multi-Family (5+ units)
Office/Retail
Mobile Home Parks
Self-Storage
Residential
Townhouse/Condo
Single-Family Rental
Primary Residence
Multi-Family (2-4 units)
Fix & Flip
Land
Short Term Rental
New Construction
Reviews (185)
4.7 stars
185 Reviews
4.7 stars
183 Reviews
5.0 stars
2 Reviews
5.0 stars
2 weeks ago
Reviewed by
Elena Garcia-Mancinas
Marlon has been helpful working fast and efficiently to ensure I find a place to call home in Cody Wyoming!
5.0 stars
3 weeks ago
Reviewed by
Michael Bolen
cannot recommend Natalie Cucalon from American West Realty highly enough! From the moment we started working together, Natalie Cucalon has been an absolute professional, dedicated to helping me find the perfect home. Their attention to detail, responsiveness, and genuine care for my needs made the rental process so much smoother than I could have imagined.
Natalie Cucalon took the time to truly understand what I was looking for in a home, patiently answering all my questions and providing valuable insights about the market. They went above and beyond, scheduling viewings that fit my busy schedule and always being available to discuss options or address concerns. Their knowledge of the area, negotiation skills, and commitment to finding a property that matched my budget and preferences were impressive.
What stood out most was Natalie Cucalon’s personalized approach. They didn’t just show me houses; they helped me envision a future in each space and guided me through every step with confidence and clarity. Even when challenges arose, she remained proactive, solutions-oriented, and kept me informed throughout the process.
If you’re looking for a real estate agent who is professional, trustworthy, and truly invested in your success, look no further than Natalie Cucalon. They made what could have been a stressful experience enjoyable and rewarding. I’m so grateful for their hard work and expertise.
1.0 star
a month ago
Reviewed by
MiniMacMini30
Applied for a rental after waiting and getting no response asked for my money back was told no. Do not use them they take your application fee and you never hear about the property your applying for complete scam. I’d be terrified for what they get out of buyers.
5.0 stars
a month ago
Reviewed by
Soh Tanaka
I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with Nathan from American West Realty and Management through the BiggerPockets community and several professional property management groups. He’s consistently shown deep knowledge of the industry and a genuine willingness to share insights and help others. He cares about doing right by both owners and residents. If you’re looking for someone professional, experienced, and collaborative, American West Realty and Management is the management company I’d recommend.
5.0 stars
a month ago
Reviewed by
Emma Brereton
Marlon couldn't have been more helpful! He went above and beyond to accommodate my request about month to month housing- including reaching out to landlords on my behalf. Thank you!
5.0 stars
2 months ago
Reviewed by
Amanda Kuck
Nicole was an amazing realtor! I rented and she was always so kind and caring. Any questions I would ask about things wrong with a stove or lights she would get someone there immediately to fix them! Her personality and job ethics are fabulous!!!!
5.0 stars
9 months ago
Reviewed by
Ken Lee
Nicole is a great realtor! She cares about her clients needs and works tirelessly to insure they are met. We loved looking at homes with her she is knowledgeable and just plain fun to hang out with. The only downside to The wonderful new home she helped us find is that we won’t get to drive around the county and look at houses with her anymore! At least not until we get some rental properties someday hopefully sooner rather than later!
5.0 stars
9 months ago
Reviewed by
Courtney Parks
I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge the outstanding work of American West Realty and Management. As a fellow property management professional, I have had the opportunity to observe their exceptional service and professionalism. Their team stands out for their deep expertise in property management and proactive approach to addressing challenges. Their ability to communicate effectively and promptly is impressive. I highly recommend American West Realty and Management for any property management needs. Their dedication and exceptional service set them apart as leaders in the field.
about 1 year ago
Reviewed by
Rob Cook
I have known, worked with and relied heavily upon Nathan and his team at American West Realty, for nearly a decade. I have him manage any and every one of my rentals within his service area, and essentially now, will not buy a property if he is not available to manage it for me! I think that says it all.
We have done many deals together, with him as my agent, and many times as the seller's listing agent.
Nathan has brought many great properties to my attention which I have bought and still hold as long term rentals under his management.
The latest, which I am just completing the renovation of now in Oct 2019, made me a $300K profit in less than a year. Now, this 8-unit property is another of my long term holds managed by Nathan (1801 Central Ave in Cody WY).
I rely heavily on Nathan's counsel, advice and deal-finding services, as well as his excellent property management.
He has contributed significantly to my wealth, happiness and longevity in the rental real estate game here in Cody and Powell, WY.
5.0 stars
about 1 year ago
Reviewed by
Will Fraser
Nathan, the captain of Am West Realty & Management, defined "give give give and know that you are more blessed to give than to received.
He has constantly sharpened his axe and used that axe to bless his clients AND the BP community.
Thanks to him I'm now even aware of another market to invest in and what makes that market a successful one!
about 1 year ago
Reviewed by
Rob Cook
I have known, worked with and relied heavily upon Nathan and his team at American West Realty, for nearly a decade. I have him manage any and every one of my rentals within his service area, and essentially now, will not buy a property if he is not available to manage it for me! I think that says it all.
We have done many deals together, with him as my agent, and many times as the seller's listing agent.
Nathan has brought many great properties to my attention which I have bought and still hold as long term rentals under his management.
The latest, which I am just completing the renovation of now in Oct 2019, made me a $300K profit in less than a year. Now, this 8-unit property is another of my long term holds managed by Nathan (1801 Central Ave in Cody WY).
I rely heavily on Nathan's counsel, advice and deal-finding services, as well as his excellent property management.
He has contributed significantly to my wealth, happiness and longevity in the rental real estate game here in Cody and Powell, WY.
5.0 stars
about 1 year ago
Reviewed by
Will Fraser
Nathan, the captain of Am West Realty & Management, defined "give give give and know that you are more blessed to give than to received.
He has constantly sharpened his axe and used that axe to bless his clients AND the BP community.
Thanks to him I'm now even aware of another market to invest in and what makes that market a successful one!
5.0 stars
2 weeks ago
Reviewed by
Elena Garcia-Mancinas
Marlon has been helpful working fast and efficiently to ensure I find a place to call home in Cody Wyoming!
5.0 stars
3 weeks ago
Reviewed by
Michael Bolen
cannot recommend Natalie Cucalon from American West Realty highly enough! From the moment we started working together, Natalie Cucalon has been an absolute professional, dedicated to helping me find the perfect home. Their attention to detail, responsiveness, and genuine care for my needs made the rental process so much smoother than I could have imagined.
Natalie Cucalon took the time to truly understand what I was looking for in a home, patiently answering all my questions and providing valuable insights about the market. They went above and beyond, scheduling viewings that fit my busy schedule and always being available to discuss options or address concerns. Their knowledge of the area, negotiation skills, and commitment to finding a property that matched my budget and preferences were impressive.
What stood out most was Natalie Cucalon’s personalized approach. They didn’t just show me houses; they helped me envision a future in each space and guided me through every step with confidence and clarity. Even when challenges arose, she remained proactive, solutions-oriented, and kept me informed throughout the process.
If you’re looking for a real estate agent who is professional, trustworthy, and truly invested in your success, look no further than Natalie Cucalon. They made what could have been a stressful experience enjoyable and rewarding. I’m so grateful for their hard work and expertise.
1.0 star
a month ago
Reviewed by
MiniMacMini30
Applied for a rental after waiting and getting no response asked for my money back was told no. Do not use them they take your application fee and you never hear about the property your applying for complete scam. I’d be terrified for what they get out of buyers.
5.0 stars
a month ago
Reviewed by
Soh Tanaka
I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with Nathan from American West Realty and Management through the BiggerPockets community and several professional property management groups. He’s consistently shown deep knowledge of the industry and a genuine willingness to share insights and help others. He cares about doing right by both owners and residents. If you’re looking for someone professional, experienced, and collaborative, American West Realty and Management is the management company I’d recommend.
5.0 stars
a month ago
Reviewed by
Emma Brereton
Marlon couldn't have been more helpful! He went above and beyond to accommodate my request about month to month housing- including reaching out to landlords on my behalf. Thank you!
5.0 stars
2 months ago
Reviewed by
Amanda Kuck
Nicole was an amazing realtor! I rented and she was always so kind and caring. Any questions I would ask about things wrong with a stove or lights she would get someone there immediately to fix them! Her personality and job ethics are fabulous!!!!
5.0 stars
9 months ago
Reviewed by
Ken Lee
Nicole is a great realtor! She cares about her clients needs and works tirelessly to insure they are met. We loved looking at homes with her she is knowledgeable and just plain fun to hang out with. The only downside to The wonderful new home she helped us find is that we won’t get to drive around the county and look at houses with her anymore! At least not until we get some rental properties someday hopefully sooner rather than later!
5.0 stars
9 months ago
Reviewed by
Courtney Parks
I wanted to take a moment to acknowledge the outstanding work of American West Realty and Management. As a fellow property management professional, I have had the opportunity to observe their exceptional service and professionalism. Their team stands out for their deep expertise in property management and proactive approach to addressing challenges. Their ability to communicate effectively and promptly is impressive. I highly recommend American West Realty and Management for any property management needs. Their dedication and exceptional service set them apart as leaders in the field.
