Long Distance Rental Management

[Peter Mikheyev]

Hi Everyone,

I am looking for your experiences in long-distance property management.

I am currently in the military and purchased a home outside of the Austin area that I have decided to rent. My family and I currently live in this home and are polishing a few things to get it rent-ready. Once I leave the military, we are planning on moving to the New England area. This home was built in 2020, so everything is pretty new, so I don't foresee any major issues popping up, but anything goes with some tenants.

I plan on being able to visit the property at least once a year. I also have some connections with local companies for problems that arise like electrical and plumbing etc.. I don't have any experience being a landlord yet, so it may be hard to manage a property from a distance. Is it possible to do so? If so, what are some of the challenges that you encounter and how you overcame them? If not, would a property manager make it possible?

Thanks,

Peter

[Paula Orty]

Being a long distant landlord is very difficult.  Unless you have lots of time and money you will go broke flying back and forth fixing, disputing, and managing an unruly tenant.  A property manager is worth the 8-10% they ask to manage your rental and tenant.