Limitations of consulting SFR owners.

[Chase Wharton]

I would like to start a consulting business where I would advise first time owners of SFR to enable them to manage their property independently. I would offer suggestions on how maximize rent. This would include suggesting updates to the home, marketing (eg how to take pictures, listing on Zillow etc.). I would provide example forms and explain them, show them how to project expense, etc.

My question is what are the limitations of doing this without a real estate license? I understand I cannot show the home, and execute the lease, but is there anything else I should be aware of?

[JD Martin]

Main thing is to be careful (in most states, some states there's no limitation) on crossing the line and becoming the property manager. Usually that means you are making decisions on tenants, acting as the owner's agent and charging tenants late fees, damages, etc, setting lease terms, etc. If you steer clear of those activities you're going to be fine for the most part - but you should still check out the laws in your state. Especially since you are in California.