First Post, First Rental, Help Please

[Tamika Buckley]

Hi Everyone,

I purchased my first rental property, all cash, at an auction in April. 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1738 sq ft. After closing, my total purchase price was around 8,600. The property has a Section 8 tenant, rented for 700 on a month to month basis. She has been in the home for the last 5 years. There are some repairs I would like to do such as replacing cracked countertop (tiles missing), painting, new toilets and sinks. How do you make repairs like this with tenant living there? Also, she has 3 dogs. Not ideal for me. Can I include a pet fee in the new lease? Suggestions please