All Forum Posts by: Joyce Tavares

When  you're ready to move or sell maybe do a 1031 exchange into a multi-family unit. Just a thought. 

Dawn Anistasi had, what I think, is the best answer, especially due to the fact that they may trash the unit and it may cost thousands to fix it.  It usually takes a while, anyway, to close escrow so if they file an eviction right away, then it should be vacant when you take possession as a condition of sale.  If they are not getting rent, why would they NOT file an eviction?

For renting purposes, the shower/tub allows all of the people interested, whereas a shower lessens the people who will be interested.  If it is just a tub with no shower, then I would pay the price to add a shower enclosure around the tub.  I've done this on many of my units that had only a tub in the main bathroom.  Also, if you rent to tenants with pets, a tub is a must.  If you already have the tub, I personally would not remove it.  I have units with small closets and this has not caused a problem.  Tenants can always get a portable clothing cabinet or chifferobe to use.

Check with the city's Zoning Department where you are planning the 4-plex...they are always very helpful and will know who to refer you to.  Good luck!  Sounds like a good plan.  :0)

Try Mercury Casulty or Safeco online....that's who I use... :0)

I agree with Bryan Neal....I do my own screening and very rarely contact the previous landlord in case they have not given notice.  One of the questions I ask is if they have already given notice.  Since rents overlap on occasion, and since the applicants are aware of this, I find it easier not to call present landlord.

I have no problem receiving calls from landlords as long as they have signed approval, in writing, to give out information.  Then I ask them to sent me an email or fax with a copy of the signed authorization.

I do know other landlords who do not return calls as they are afraid if they answer honestly, then the tenants won't get the rental and the landlord will be stuck with the bad tenants.  

Also, not all tenants react the same with different landlords and different situations...it could possibly have been the landlords attitude, failure to do repairs, etc., that prompts a bad review on the tenant.

Timothy is right....run both reports and then make a decision.  It is your choice, so pick the one with the best credit and rental history and who you can count on to pay the rent.  Many of my tenants are very quiet and not as friendly as some of the applicants, but I can always count on the rent being on time or early!  

If you have never been a landlord, I would suggest starting with maybe a duplex or fourplex to see if this is something you can do.  Landlording is not easy and takes a lot of time and effort.  One book I highly recommend is "Landlording" by Leigh Robinson...you can actually pick up a used copy...any edition is good to start.  I update mine as they print new editions but it a real eye opener with a comical twist and fun to read.... 

As you get the hang of it, then maybe do a 1031 into a larger multi-family property...or split whatever equity you have and use the equity to buy two other properties!....  The best of luck to you....

In California you can give 60 days notice without a reason.  Just before his lease is up let him know you won't be renewing the lease and if he's not out when the lease ends, you could send him a 60-day notice to vacate. That should give him time to find another place.

I wouldn't repair it until they move out, then take it out of the security deposit.  I would, however, make a note of it.  If they haven't complained to you about it, evidently it isn't bothering them.