Managing rental properties is a lucrative and rewarding business, but it requires the right mindset. Managers must answer to both the property owner, who wants the best return on his or her investment, and the tenants, who want quality living spaces at fair prices.

A good starting point is to determine whether a property has the potential to attract high-quality tenants by ensuring that it’s in a desirable location, is clean and well maintained and offers convenient amenities. Once this is done, it’s time to market the property using online databases, social media or local advertisements. Once applications start rolling in, it’s important to conduct a thorough tenant screening process that includes running credit and background checks and verifying income and other references. It’s also critical to understand landlord-tenant laws and follow fair housing guidelines.

Rent collection is another essential responsibility. This may involve sending out reminders, accepting payments online or by check and disbursing those funds to the property owner. It’s also important to make it clear in the lease that late fees apply and to enforce them.

Maintaining communication with the tenants is vital for catching maintenance issues and addressing any other concerns quickly. It’s also a good way to keep them happy and boost your retention rates. The key is to keep it professional and not get too personal. For example, if your tenants are a few days late with their rent payment, be sure to communicate that to them in a respectful manner and inform them of the possibility of being evicted should they continue to pay rent late. property rental management