All Forum Posts by: Shannon M.

I managed a large complex for many years that was a dormitory style, 6 bedrooms in each unit— I felt like I was putting fires out all the time. Much of my time spent was playing “counselor” to college students. Try not to get caught up in all the extra drama and stick with the facts and address the violations as your lease outlines. I often had to remind tenants (and their helicopter parents) that life is about dealing with people who are different and we don’t always like. As for the violation send a 3 notice to cure and hopefully that gets their attention. 

As for the pot smoking neighbors I'm not sure there is much more you can do if the cops have been notified. Assuming the pot smokers are not your tenants and this condo is owned by someone else maybe reach out to the landlord or HOA?

I can’t imagine what the rest of the property looks like if the refrigerator looks like this! Broom cleaned?!? 

I’m interested in hearing what the state has to say. Did you have them sign a lead disclosure before moving them in?

Right now I’m using Venmo but would love to hear about what other owners use.

I think there are some big red flags here! I would pass on this one!

That’s a fairly excessive amount of pets if you ask me! I think one small dog is my limit. I feel like there is a lot of risk as is— adding more just increases your risk of damages. I understand being eager to rent and generate income, but you have to remember it’s far better to have a property sit vacant than jump in with the wrong tenant who can cause thousands of dollars in damages. I personally would pass.

As of right now I’m not impressed with Zillow. I’ve currently listed my vacant duplex on their site. Maybe it’s me or a bug in their system but I’ve had nothing but trouble with trying to update photos and information. I’ve reached out to them with no resolve. 

I just started using Rentprep. I’ve only screened a couple of prospects so far but I like it.

@Alan Hicks I’ve been with Liberty Mutual and they quoted me $2500 a year for a landlord policy on my duplex. I decided to go with a local insurance broker and they got me a policy for $500 a year. Definitely try a local insurance broker who can shop multiple insurances to find you the best policy.

I think it’s human nature to want to sympathize but without a income your setting yourself up from a disaster.