Any tips on investing and managing rentals in neighbourhoods that are predominantly non-English speaking?

Do I need to provide bi-lingual documents?

Legally, where is the burden of communication, me or the tenant?

Eventually, I’d like to hire a bi-lingual assistant, not just for me, but to make it easier for my tenants, but right now it’s just me. 

Sandra,

You have two issues dealing with non English speakers.  The first is the legal issues regarding contracts,  required disclosures etc. That is simply following the rules and simple enough to do.

Your second issue is a more intractable one. Typically first generation immigrants are very, very fearful of the new community that they are moving into. They don't speak the language,  everything is brand new, the proceses are different even the smells are unknown. 

This makes one very nervous,  and given limited budgets, they part very carefully with money,  if at all. They don't feel secure. Traditional "American " approaches simply don't work. Cold calling, fliers, etc. Just go by the wayside. 

The best approach is to work with them. Maybe volunteering, some sort of outreach,  anything where they get to know you as a person in the community before they even think about trusting you. This is a long process, think years not months. 

Interestingly,  I find second generation  (born/early move) a bit more difficult than immigrants.  The reason is that an immigrant has to give up everything and has some spirit of adventure  (although not always). The second generation knows both cultures and doesn't 100% trust either one.

Please understand these are generalizations, and individuals vary quite a bit depending on a variety of circumstances.  My advice comes from both working with immigrant buyers as an agent, knowing several second generation families as a teacher and having been in the situation where I am essentially an immigrant (teaching in foreign non-English speaking countries ). In essence,  I've worked with a few immigrants, been in contact with more and been one myself. 

Good luck!

Jim 

@James C. Thank you so much for taking the time to provide such a generous response.  Your thoughts align with my own values as I want to create trusted relationships. And, I'm not into 'get quick' anything.  Thank you again for giving me much to think about.