All Forum Posts by: Blake Messina

Hi Josh- not sure about your area, but nicer rentals in central Florida can charge $300 per pet for a fee. Not a deposit, it is a one time fee. I would really think about what type of flooring you have in your rental. A very large percentage of dogs are going to either destroy or stain your carpet over time. That's why it is so important to get a pet fee. Also, keep in mind that a pet fee is just a fee to the tenants for the right to have a dog there. The tenants are still responsible for maintaining the unit! If there are pet stains on the carpet, the damage is deducted from the security deposit! A lot of tenants have the wrong thinking on this, and think just because they paid a pet fee, they won't be responsible if their pet destroys the carpet. Not the case. Also a good idea to explain this policy up front to your tenants. Good luck!

Something to keep in mind when raising the rents on tenants is what their cost to move would be. Moving is expensive and one of the biggest headaches there is. A lot of people would gladly pay an extra $50/month than have to go through the hassles of moving. I have found that a lot of times it is best to ride out a current tenant as long as you can before getting a new one. Repairs and vacancy costs add up quickly. That being said, the smoking factor is a wild card. So, no set answer here, just wanted to point out that most tenants would rather pay a little more than pay to move. Good luck!

Pete- obviously it's up to you, but I love having my own access to MLS. Not sure about your area, but between taking a pre-license class, state test, etc and then paying to join your local association and pay MLS dues, it could cost you $1,500-$2,000 or more to get started (at least in Florida). The nice thing is that you can set up a daily hot sheet for whatever area you desire that will show you all the newest listings and price changes. It also makes it a lot easier because you can get your own access to properties without asking another agent every time you want to see a property. I also like the idea of having a license in cases where a friend or family member wants to buy a home. Why not make a few thousand bucks on the side by helping your closest friends or family members? Just food for thought. Good luck!

Nice job Gregory. It's a numbers game. I get approximately 1 out of 9 homes I offer on. Make lots of offers and the deals will follow!

Seems like this is being overthought. Why not just terminate your current agreement with your property manager and then send a notice to your tenants stating that there is a new manager in place? Am I over-simplifying the situation? Good luck!