Rentals in Philadelphia, but you live outside the city? Question!

[Mike B.]

Hi all,

**Question for investors who live OUTSIDE Phila city limits.  

I currently have rental properties in the city of Philadelphia, where I currently live.  I'm looking to move out of the city this year, but still keep my rental properties.  I found online via city of Phila website (unsure if this is old info) that as an owner/property manager of rental properties in Phila.. you need to live in the city OR have an agent representative in city limits to represent you.  Anyone ever hear about this?  

For those who have rental properties within city limits (Philadelphia), but you live OUTSIDE the city limits, do you self manage?  Any issues (or other thoughts) I need to be aware of as an investment owner (and property manager) in this future scenario? 

Thanks in advance! 

[Irfan Raza]

I have never self managed and therefore, I have put my property manager in that line.  I think it would be no big deal if you put one of your friends addresses on their as the "agent".  You can then choose to have all correspondence go to the owner so they would not even get any mail sent to them. 

[Joe White]

@Mike B. A good property manager should actually make you more than they cost. It is probably your solution.

[Mike B.]

Thanks @Irfan Raza and @Joe White

I have turnkey properties that require minimal (if any) maintenance though, so if possible would like to continue managing them (avoiding other fees/costs whenever possible). I wonder also if I could just get a PO BOX in the city instead?

[Steve Babiak]

No, the PO box does not meet the requirement. The "agent" does not have to be a licensed real estate agent, just somebody who can have legal papers served when you have a lawsuit facing you. See if one of your friends or neighbors is willing to do this; offer a few dollars for them to basically do nothing.

[Mike B.]

Thanks @Steve Babiak.. was hoping you would chime in on this. Appreciate the assistance!