A Property Rental Agency Is The Answer For Busy Investors

By Harold Meyer


There are plenty of videos, seminars, and how to books instructing interested parties on the art of buying real estate and making money from the transaction. One way that many Maryland investors profit from their real estate properties is by renting to third parties. Individuals with multiple parcels, those unfamiliar with the rental process, and owners who continue to work a full time jobs in other fields often employ the services of an Anne Arundel County, Maryland property rental agency.

If you are new to the real estate leasing market, it may be difficult for you to judge what you should be able to expect renters to pay every month. Most agencies handle multiple houses, condos, and apartments. They know what comparable units are renting for and can inspect your portfolio and advise you as to how much you can expect. Representatives will also let you know when it is appropriate to increase monthly rents.

In order to maintain a high level of occupancy, renters have to know about your properties. You may not have any background in advertising or understand exactly who to contact at newspapers or what websites are the most effective. Agencies do know how to place advertising and what information needs to go into the copy. The advertising and marketing budget will be a subject you need to discuss with your representative.

You don't want to rent to troublemakers or individuals who are lax about paying their rent every month. If you aren't familiar with the process of selecting the best applicants, you might end up chasing your tenants down at the beginning of each month. Agencies are approved to check credit ratings and call employers and references. They normally require applicants to submit criminal background checks with their applications.

There are standard leases that most landlords use. They may vary depending on the laws of the state where the properties are located. Everyone who rents a house or apartment should sign one before occupying the real estate. Agencies not only handle lease preparation for clients, but know how to modify them for particular circumstances.

Property maintenance can be very time consuming for individuals trying to handle their rental property on their own while they are still holding down full time jobs. Agencies have staff and contractors who can make repairs and clean out properties when tenants leave. They handle payment of supplies and workers needed to complete jobs. They will also make sure lawn maintenance and pest control are conducted per contract agreements.

It is not hard to get into big trouble with state and federal government agencies if certain laws are not followed to the letter. Management companies know the laws regarding discrimination and fair housing. They understand how much time tenants are allowed to pay rent before the eviction process can begin.

Owning and renting real estate can be very lucrative. Many people live quite nicely on the profits from the properties they rent. Actually handling the day to day management however, is often best left to the professionals.




About the Author: