Staging the rental: First impressions are valuable. If your property doesn't show well, you may not get a second chance. Give them a bright clean look! You will not often get a second chance to show to people you might like to rent to if they have rejected the rental because it was dirty or dark or cluttered. Your only hope might be to lower the price to entice them back.
1. Be sure it's clean
2. Keep the clutter down
3. Consider flowers for some color and scent
4. Put a mirror over the fireplace or in the living room so that people can see themselves in
your property
5. Paint can really brighten a room and dollar for dollar is good
6. Open the drapes, let the light in and creates a more spacious feeling
Vacant property by appointment only:
This is time consuming. If the property is a high rental and you feel that personal attention is necessary or expected then set an appointment with just a few viewers in an evening or weekend day. If not then advertise for and expect a group.
Be sure to arrive first and open the blinds to let light in or turn on the heat to warm during colder weather.
1. Be sure to allow at least 15 minutes for each viewer
2. Dress for business
3. Be enthusiastic and positive. People will take cues and mirror your mood
4. Bring applications, a pen and have a table available for filling out applications. Consider having a list of your house rules for everyone, its an easy first screen.
5. Have a list of amenities and any other information you think is a selling point. A list of schools and transportation is very helpful and can be a good selling point.
6. Don't forget to ask for the application - this is sales!
7. Be sure to have a friend call you periodically. It can be dangerous when you are alone with strangers and a call from a friend or colleague can keep you safe.
8. Leave all valuables at home or in your car.
9. Count the number of people in the viewing group and be sure they all leave before you lock up.
Occupied Property by appointment only:
1. Always clear appointments with the current tenant and give at least 24 hours notice in writing
2. Be aware of any cats or dogs in the property
3. Respect the current tenants needs, they still live there
The Rental Application:
Don't discriminate! There are some people who know the law well and look to create nuisance law suits for a quick settlement. This is an area where many discrimination law suits take place.
1. Take all applications
2. Be sure they are signed
3. Continue to show until you have a rental agreement
4. Have a list of all your requirements, such as FICO score or financials and your house rules attached to the application.
5. Have your contact info on the application
6. Be sure to let all know prior to bring a checkbook for application fees. Do not accept cash for safety reasons.
Fair Housing
Fair housing laws specify illegal reasons to refuse to rent: Race, religion, ethnic background, sex, age or because she has children or a disability. Basically, your reasons for refusal must be applied equally to everyone, but you can refuse to rent for the following reasons:
1. Your rental criteria. This really should be written down so that anyone questioning your subjectivity can be satisfied quickly. Objectivity is the key and the burden of proof is on you.
2. Poor credit history, insufficient income to pay the rent
3. Past behavior, such as neighbor complaints, damaged property, evictions or bankruptcies.
4. A valid occupancy policy limiting the number of people per rental unit . Know the law in your state before you refuse renters based on the number of people allowable in your unit.
Thanks for Reading
Howard Bell
