This will further dissuade tenants from using the common areas, which can reduce your liability and risk of fire, etc..If it's a small multi, I would put all the common area utilities on one unit's account and sign a utilities addendum with the tenant and give them a rent credit each month. 

I pay all utilities. 

Also ask tenants if there are any recurring issues.Typically when completing the due diligence, you'll have a chance to see the current Sch E, which will list utilities if the owner is paying anything. 

I recently dealt with an eviction and associated unpaid utility bills on a KCMO SFR LTR near St Pius HS, and the utility company confirmed that the bill follows the tenant if in tenant name.

I’ve been seeing more investors use asset utilization loans lately, qualifying based on their liquid assets or portfolio instead of income or tax returns.For experienced investors or self-employed borrowers, this seems like a powerful way to unlock equity and keep scaling even when write-offs limit income on paper.Has anyone here closed a deal using this type of financing?

We have a cleaner who does deep cleaning at the end of each month, and another who handles two hours of common area cleaning mid-month.

But generally speaking, managing your credit score is a common task for real estate investors - especially for those who make use of credit in the purchase and rehab of properties.

They come under an HOA because all of those private items are what is known as 'common area' or that everyone in the development has a 'common interest' in the areas. 

Overruns are common, especially if you’re new to managing contractors or doing the work yourself.Ask yourself: is your time best spent on labor, or on finding the next deal?

.💡 Utilities – If you pay for water, gas, or electricity, those are deductible.🧹 Cleaning & Landscaping Services – Routine upkeep expenses.💼 Professional Fees – Legal, accounting, or property management services.🧑‍🔧 Contractor Labor & Supplies – Any materials or hired help for property improvements.🚗 Mileage/Travel – When traveling to inspect or manage rental properties (keep mileage logs).💻 Office Supplies & Software – Including bookkeeping tools, printers, and even part of your home office.Creative Ways to Give Back — and Still SaveGiving back can also be tax-deductible when done thoughtfully:🎁 Tenant Appreciation Gifts: Small gifts such as gift cards, snacks, or holiday baskets (under $25 per tenant per IRS rules) can be deductible as a business expense.🏘️ Community Donations: Contributing to local charities, shelters, or community events near your property may be tax-deductible if donated to a registered nonprofit (501(c)(3)).🧤 Property Improvement Drives: Donating old appliances, furniture, or materials from renovations to nonprofit organizations like Habitat for Humanity can qualify as a charitable deduction.Pro Tip:Before December 31st, review your receipts, invoices, and bank statements.