First Time Landlord and New Member

[Deanna Rene Boyle]

Hi! My name is Dee - I am a new member and soon-to-be new landlord as I close on my first duplex next month. I live in the Spokane, WA region, and would LOVE any of your best first-time landlord tips. I will be occupying one side and renting out the other, hoping to be able to buy my next one in a couple of years. 

Thanks in advance for all your advice! 

[Brandon Rush]

Hey Deanna,

Congrats on picking up your first property! Exciting stuff. 

Here are a few random tips off the top of my head:

* Be friendly, but firm with your tenants. Letting things only trains you tenants to be bad tenants
* Find a handyman asap. They will be one of your greatest assets 
* Take your time choosing tenants, do not feel pressured to take any tenant. Choosing the wrong tenants, I personally believe, is why many landlords get burnt out
* Do not pick up the phone when the tenants call! Either have them send text or leave a voicemail. This will give you time to think about how to respond to them instead of being caught off guard when on the phone with them
* Build/Develop a good lease and make sure your tenant understands it
* Keep reserves in the bank for a rainy day

Good luck on your journey!