All Forum Posts by: Deanna Bennett

I am glad to have found this question. Unfortunately, my family will be facing this situation in the near future with my mother-in-law. I am looking forward to reading all of the advice.
I think a condo might be a possibility for our family. In this area, some condos are set up more like town homes so people living on all sides would not be an issue. Sure there are disadvantages, but they must be weighed against the individual purchaser's situation. However, it is very important to educate yourself about the HOA and condo rules to make sure you are ok with the rules and regulations. In the end, the condo may provide some security to have other people living in the complex and an opportunity for socializing.
On that note, independent living would also be a great alternative if there were places where younger individuals lived. These communities are set up for 55 and older individuals, but my experience is that the average age is closer to 75 - 80 in my mother-in-law's area.

Thanks for starting this thread. There was a time I was looking at an out of state investment, but never went through with it. I will be interested to see what other issues are brought up. I passed because I was a newer investor and the thought of not being there to check up on things made me too nervous.

@Jonnyv88 - I am excited to see how this works out for you. Good luck and keep us all posted.

It looks like there is a lot to learn from people in this forum!

I find it interesting to see the trends that spam follows. I have received this email (or a very similar version) more often lately. I have also received emails talking about outsourcing web design services. Remember when they were only for medications and illicit services?

Jon's right, if it didn't work, it wouldn't exist. There is someone out there that falls for it.

I also agree that using Craigslist usually leads to receiving lots of spam. To combat this, I have set up separate emails for advertising on Craigslist in the past. You can easily filter email categories in gmail so these items will not come to your inbox. This let's you check it only when you are actively running an ad and you can easily delete the email account if the spam gets overwhelming and create a new one.

Thank you for posting this information. I was still under the impression the requirement was for 2011, until I read the IRS Bulletin above.

Thank you all for the recommendations and suggestions. I agree that honesty is always the best way to go - I was just wondering if there was a standard I should follow.

I will see if I know anywhere I can refer them and "pay forward" the great lead.

I have used this service and find it to be a good product with a straight forward and intuitive interface. Everyone I have spoken to appreciates the quick turn around time that comes with the electronic application. As soon as your prospective tenant fills out the requested information, you are sent a report and recommendation for approval/denial from TransUnion. There is also the option for the landlord to pay the fees or have the fees paid by the tenant directly. I know that part was mentioned before, but it's one of the best features so I thought I'd say it again.

I am in the great position to select between two wonderful tenants and I have chosen one over the other. Any great advice on how to break the news to the rejected party? Should it be over the phone or a in a letter? And is there any specific wording I should use or avoid? Thank you for your help!!