Bedbugs. The very word produces a shudder in any homeowner, landlord, or tenant. Although they don’t carry diseases, bedbugs are an incredible nuisance. They’re hard to spot and even harder to get rid of. Since they’re small and hardy, people can unwittingly transfer bedbugs via bedding, luggage, or clothing. And once they’ve entered a property, …

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The Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) originated under the Housing Act 1937. It helps low-income families, the elderly, and disabled persons find housing in the private market by providing rent payment assistance. Participants can select safe, sanitary housing in single-family homes, townhouses, or apartments.    So, how do landlords join this program, and what are …

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When a tenant moves out, preparing for the next renter takes extra effort. Repairs, maintenance, and cleaning are all part of a landlord’s turnover routine. But the situation becomes more complicated when the previous tenant leaves belongings behind. Should you return the abandoned property? Can you throw it out or keep it? Read on for …

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An investor finds an ideal location in their search for a rental property, but there’s one complication: tenants already live there. Their lease will continue beyond the purchase unless the rental agreement specifies otherwise or the sale is part of a foreclosure. So, if the sale goes through, the current tenants will likely pass to …

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Owning a vacation rental property can be a profitable venture, especially in popular tourist destinations. However, as some markets have become saturated with short-term rentals, and the needs of travelers are changing, many property owners are finding that converting their vacation rental into a long-term rental can yield several advantages. Steady, Predictable Income One of …

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Anyone who owns a property they’d rather not sell—whether from a move, an inheritance, or other circumstances—may wonder if he should become a landlord. The decision involves many considerations, and authors Attorney Janet Portman, Ilona Bray, J.D., and Marcia Stewart offer valuable guidance. Their book, First-Time Landlord: Your Guide to Renting Out a Single-Family Home, …

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As a landlord, your rental property is an essential component of your business and income. Naturally, you want to protect that investment and ensure your tenants take care of the property. But sometimes, it’s hard to distinguish between a conscientious landlord and a meddling one. How can a property owner avoid crossing that line?   While …

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Landlords screen tenants to find renters who will care for their units. But no matter how carefully landlords select tenants, property damage can still occur. So, how should you deal with property damage and calculate what a tenant owes?   Local laws vary on when and how much landlords can charge tenants for property damage, so …

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A landlord owns a rental unit to secure rent-paying tenants. Unfortunately, a property that sits empty too long could acquire a non-paying occupant. A squatter takes up residence on a property without the owner’s consent. But although the squatter’s presence is unlawful, you must handle him with caution since he does have certain rights.    By …

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One of a landlord’s fundamental tasks is maintaining his rental units. But considering the array of potential issues at a rental property—from plumbing to structural—no landlord can single-handedly manage every repair. Instead, he must engage reliable maintenance professionals before his property needs work.   Ideal vendors will reliably produce quality work at a reasonable price. But …

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