Showing posts with label rental property. Show all posts
Showing posts with label rental property. Show all posts

Sunday, June 6, 2010

What you ALWAYS need to do when you own rental property

Do you own rental property? Here are a few tips for you and your property management company to keep your business running smoothly.

1. Always Screen Your Tenants.
Never rent your property to anyone before doing a thorough credit history, checking references, and doing background checks. Failure to screen tenants often result in problems such as late-paying tenants, or those who damage the property. Your property management company should be able to assist you, (or in some cases completely manage) the tenant screening process.

2. Always Get It In Writing.
It is never wise to enter into a property agreement without a written lease or month-to-month rental agreement. It is important to document the terms of the relationship with your tenants -- including when and how you, or the property management company will handle tenant complaints, emergency and non-emergency repair requests, notice you must give to enter a tenant's apartment, etc. Your property management company should be able to assist you with a proper contract.

3. Always Handle All Financial Transactions Properly.
Establish a fair system of setting, collecting, holding, and returning rent and security deposits. Always inspect and carefully document the condition of the rental unit before any tenant moves in, (and make any necessary repairs to keep it in rent-ready condition) to avoid disputes over security deposits when the tenant moves out.

4. Always Stay on Top of Maintenance.
Maintaining a clean and safe property as well as making the needed repairs in timely fashion is vital to being successful at rental property ownership. If the property is not kept in good condition, you'll likely alienate good tenants, and tenants may even have the right to withhold rent, or sue for injuries caused by defective conditions, or even move out without needing to give notice.

5. Always Provide a Secure Environment.
Your tenants deserve a safe a secure premises. Assess your property's security situation and take the appropriate steps to protect it with proper lighting, tidy landscaping, security patrols where necessary and whatever else you need to do to protect your assets and tenants.

6. Always Let Tenants Know Before You Enter Their Rental Units.
It is not only polite, but in many cases the law to notify your tenants whenever you plan to enter a rental unit. You should provide as much notice as possible, at least 24 hours or the minimum amount required by state law.

7. Always Disclose Environmental Hazards.
If there's a danger such as lead or mold on the property, you need to disclose this to your tenants. You could be held responsible to any health problems your tenants suffer due to these types of hazards. It is always best to remedy the situation properly and as soon as possible, but at the very least you need to let the tenants (and potential tenants) know.

8. Always Work With a Reputable Property Management Company.
Choose and supervise your property management company carefully. Choose a company with a good reputation, references and experience managing the specific type of property you have in that market.

9. Always Purchase Liability and Property Insurance.
It is important to protect yourself by purchasing enough liability and other property insurance. Insurance can protect you from lawsuits by tenants. Injuries, fire and storms damage, burglary and vandalism are all things that can happen, and you should carry insurance to keep a small disaster from turning into a major one.

10. Always Resolve Disputes Quickly.
Dispute will occur eventually—in any time of property relationship. It may be something small—such as a client paying a day late each month, or something big, like the need to evict. But it is important to resolve disputes with your tenants quickly and without lawyers and lawsuits when possible. If a dispute becomes more difficult, you can consider mediation by a neutral third party, (again, your property management company can be very helpful here). By addressing any issue that arise quickly, you will be able to avoid costly and potentially devastating repercussions.

Kuester Property Manager

Monday, May 10, 2010

So You Are Thinking It Is Time To Own Some Rental Property

We hear the naysayers all the time. Not a great return, too much hassle, I don’t know what to do, etc... The fact is, that rental property is a stable and great investment. Let’s break it down for you…

Owning rental property can be a great source of steady income if handled properly, or it can be serious profit when looking for a long-term real estate investment. Going about both is a bit different though – so you have to be honest with yourself about your short-term and long-term goals. Deciding which way you want to go depends on several things.

Rental property is much like your own personal property…Well, you own it just like you own the home you live in! The owners/renters - you - have all of the standard legal obligations of owning property, including taxes, the mortgage, insurance and any other expenses. You also need to be aware of the condition of the property at all times and maintain a safe living environment for your tenants. There is also the investment of time in managing the property. Who is going to do repairs, mow the lawns, shovel the sidewalks, follow up with tenants if rent isn't paid, see that all rules are being followed, settle disputes...the list is a long one. Even if you can’t do it – a good property management agency can do it for you.

If you decide you want to keep your rental property as a long term investment – and not a short term windfall – take some extra thought. Be sure you protect yourself financially and legally. Owning rental real estate means knowing how to handle tenant effectively, fairly and legally all the while making sure you are covered.

Investing in commercial property can be a lucrative venture. However, you can capitalize on your return by boosting your commercial property's value by adding some investment friendly features. These improvements can run the gamut from a substantial initial payment to a mere investment of your time and sales skills. You can take a piece of undeveloped land and increase its value exponentially by using a few techniques to give it more selling power and you a higher profit.

If you find inexpensive and high-end property, consider this: Property that is on or near golf courses, lakes or beachfront is usually always a safe bet. Plenty of people have made a mint from rental shore homes. Sea or lakeside property is a rare commodity and should be jumped at quick! Ocean front condos in Myrtle Beach for example are great for increasing your profits from commercial property!

Kuester Property Management

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

Property Management: Keeping the Tenants Happy

Most people who have rental properties don’t lease them out for the joy of meeting new people. Rental properties are typically an important source of income and/or a solid investment. As long as they stay rented, your investment remains healthy and your income will remain steady. Solid and reliable property managers are crucial to keeping your tenants happy. Happy tenants are tenants who will not only renew their leases, but also recommend your properties to friends. Quality property managers also know how to deal with problem tenants, ensuring that rent is paid in a timely fashion and that your property will not sustain any costly damage.

No matter the reason why you turn to a property management agency, an attentive and responsible property manager will keep things humming along. Property mangers are the guys who shovel the snow, trim back the trees, and keep Mother Nature at bay (or, they know who to hire to make all this happen!) You have to remember that all of the upkeep that is needed to ensure your house runs smoothly – well, that kind of upkeep and more is needed to keep your rental property running. A property manager or management agency is the best bet to ensure you don’t spend your life keeping your rental properties running smooth.

Occasionally something will break or fail at even the most carefully maintained residence. Experienced property management agencies know what contractors to call when there is a problem and what contractors to avoid so not to get over-billed. Many property managers have preferred relationships with plumbers and other repairmen, and can also negotiate the best terms with other service providers like landscaping, pool cleaning, painters, snow removal and general contractors. Depending on your property and business relationship, your property manger can probably run things so efficiently that you might totally forget about the unit (well, at least until the checks come in!)

Property owners tend to choose an outside management agency to run their assets for many of the reasons above. Qualified property mangers will pay for themselves, by saving you on headaches and money--and keep your tenants happy!
Property Manager
Charlotte area property management www.kuester.com Fort Mill, Boone, Charlotte, Myrtle Beach & Concord

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Commercial Lease Terms

Dear Property Manager,



I have decided to take my home-based book-keeping, and virtual assistant business and move it into a small office. My problem is I don’t know any of the “lingo” or what the clauses in the commercial lease contracts mean. Is there a place I can look or a list of the most common commercial lease terms?
Thank you for your help –

Madeleine Y.

Boone, NC

Dear Madeleine,

Here are some important terms with which you will need to familiarize yourself before signing your commercial lease, however, you will also want to work with a real estate attorney, who will assist you in getting the details of the contract right for you.

Use Clause: How the space can and cannot be used. Ask any question if this is unclear, and make sure that this clause is as fair to you as well as to your new landlord.

Exclusive Clause: Limits competing businesses from opening up in the same complex, or next door, if the landlord owns the other property/spaces in the immediate vicinity.

Premises: The premises should be defined clearly to be just the building, or space, or also include the parking lot or facility, bathrooms, kitchen, etc and spell out common areas shared by other tenants.

Parties: “Parties” refers usually to the landlord and tenant, (“lessor” and “lesee”) and should specifically name you in the contract. (Make sure to verify the names for correct spelling, etc.)

Term Clause: The length of your lease and specifically the starting and ending dates. This should begin after you have all necessary insurance and are ready to start business, not necessarily on the day the contract is signed.

Rent: Specifically states rent, and if it isn’t otherwise state should include improvements and maintenance costs if you are responsible, as well as rate increases or the “fixed rate’ cost.
Security Deposits: What amount you are required to give the landlord as a deposit. This is a safety measure for the landlord in case you miss a payment, or break an agreement, such as the state of the space, (maintenance needed) after your move out. If there are no issues, then this amount will be returned to you, unless otherwise stated.

Build-outs (Improvements and Alterations): If your new space will have to be customized to fit your needs, the lease should address this. The landlord may require an agreement about who does the design, contractors, timeline, payment, etc. This is important if your space isn’t move-in ready.

Insurance Clauses: Your landlord may require a specific kind of insurance (property, liability, rental interruption, and/or leasehold), to insure against things that are beyond their control (and sometimes yours). You will want to discuss your specific needs with a business insurance broker.
Other Clauses: Parking, Signs, Landlord’s Entry, and Security: There will (or should) be several paragraphs about whether you can put up signage, and the requirements there-of, as well as when and how the landlord can have access to your space, where you and your staff and customers can park, and the security of the property.

The key to successfully leasing a commercial property is to review all of the possibilities with an experienced attorney. Ultimately, you want to avoid surprises. Try to ensure that all of your business needs are covered and that you can run your business comfortably for the term of the lease.

Good luck and remember that your team (accountant, broker, commercial real estate agent, and attorney) will be vital to finding the right property and negotiating the right terms for you and your business. Make sure you heed their advice, or seek a second opinion if you are unsure. Signing a commercial lease is a big responsibility, and can ultimately lead to the success of your business.

If you would like to talk to one of our commercial property specialists in your area, please call our Boone, NC office at 803.578.7725.

Property Manager
Kuester: Boone, North Carolina

Saturday, May 2, 2009

Should I Buy a Commercial Property?

Dear Property Manager,

I have been considering purchasing a building for my web development business. Currently we rent our space, but it seems like a good time to buy and stop having to pay rent, and maybe rent out a little space and make some money as well.

Would this be a good decision? I don’t know anything about commercial real estate in the Boone area where we are now.

Chris K. Boone, NC

Dear Chris:

Many people have wondered if owning their own business location would be a good idea. The answer depends a lot on your business and financial situation, and also on your willingness to handle the responsibilities of property ownership in addition to running your business. Interest rates at near historic lows, and property costs also low, creating an opportunity for savvy entrepreneurs.

Owning your commercial property location does offer many benefits. As you pay each mortgage payment, you'll build equity –instead of having it go to rent you will never get back. And if the property value appreciates, you could make a significant amount of money when you go to sell. Since you will be the landlord, you will have control over the space – giving you the freedom to do any build-outs you wish, paint the walls purple to match your company logo, or add an employee’s lounge/patio out back! You could even decide to lease un-used space to tenants, creating an additional revenue stream.

Additionally, as the owner of your commercial property, you can make maintenance repairs on your own schedule and you won’t have to worry about rent going up next year, and the year after!

To buy your property you will probably need 20% of the value in cash. If there are tenants already in the space, you will need copies of their signed leased for the lender, and insurance against damage or loss. You will also want to consult your attorney and accountant before making any decisions. There are serious financial, legal and tax implications associated with commercial property ownership.Before finalizing your decision to buy, consider your cash situation, not only for the down payment and the mortgage payments, but for any needed repairs, maintenance or upgrades that will need to be done. Also consider what you will do if your own business outgrows the space: Will you be able to rent it and move into a bigger building? Is the location a good one for future tenants?

It is a buyer’s market, and no might be a great time to buy your commercial property. But before you take that leap, weigh all the pros and cons, and make the best decision for you and your business.

If you would like more information about the available commercial properties in Boone, or learn about property management services, please call our Boone, NC office at 803.578.7725.

Property Manager
Kuester Companies
Boone, NC

Monday, January 26, 2009

Office Rental Hidden Costs

Dear Kuester –

I am thinking of renting an office space and would like your advice on what issues to be aware of beyond price per square foot and additional hidden fees.

Kenny T.


Dear Kenny –

You are wise to be cautious when renting an office. Be sure that, in your calculations, you have figured in the “hidden costs” you mention such as service charges, heating, air conditioning, lighting, furniture, insurance, and so forth. Once you’ve add in all incremental charges, does it still fit comfortably into your budget?

Another issue to consider is whether the space will serve you over the long term. It may look perfect now, but is it able to accommodate your plans for growth? If you add employees a year or two from now, will it still meet your needs or will a move be required?

Do the premises match your business’ “brand?” Is the building and its occupants consistent with the image you’d like your business to portray? Check what type of neighbors you’ll have and whether their businesses may interfere with “quiet enjoyment” of your space.

Talk to neighboring tenants. Is the building well-maintained? How is it managed, and by whom? Do the managing agents or owners respond quickly if there’s a problem? Are there ongoing issues that haven’t been addressed? What sort of regulations (such as hours of service for a freight elevator) might pose a problem for your business?

Balance location convenience against cost. Many business owners select offices that are remotely located to cut on costs, but discover it’s a false savings. It may be harder to get and keep employees and clients. It can add additional transportation costs for banking, mailing and picking up supplies. Are the amenities nearby adequate to serve your business’ needs (restaurants to which you can take clients, hotels in which they can stay).

Depending on your business, there are many considerations to take into account when renting or leasing office space.

We have been involved in renting, leasing and selling real estate for over 30 years and we’d be happy to offer our expertise to make sure your rental office meets your current and future needs. Please give us a call at 803.802.0004 for an appointment.

Best regards,
Property Manager
Kuester Property Management

Thursday, January 22, 2009

Rental Property for Toy Store

Dear Property Manager –

I am launching a specialty toy store and am looking for a rental property in the northeast of York County, S.C.. I’ve done my business plan and know approximately how much I can pay per square foot. The only thing I need to decide now is where, and what type of location. Any advice?

Marge W., Charlotte, NC.


Dear Marge –

I’m sure you’ve heard it before, but running a retail operation is all about location, location, location, unless you’re a destination business. As you know, you are fighting the competition of both big box and online toy retailers. That being said, specialty toy shops hold special magic for both parents and children that can lead to dynamic business.

A toy store is a destination during the holidays, but the rest of the year, it must be in a high traffic area, so you’ll want to consider either a busy downtown location with heavy foot traffic, a mall or a shopping plaza. The building also needs adequate restroom facilities, easy access for truck deliveries, ample parking and no obstacles for strollers. For each location you consider, investigate what other nearby businesses draw the type of clientele you’re targeting. Is there a family-friendly restaurant? A children’s clothing or shoe store? A pet store? A candy or book store? A pediatrician or dentist? These types of businesses offer a synergy that would be mutually beneficial

We manage a number of retail sites that provide the amenities you are seeking. One that comes to mind immediately is the Shoppes at Towne Square, located at in the heart of Fort Mill at 200 Doby's Bridge Road. This property has up to 2000 square ft. available for rent, great visibility from three sides, and is located in a high-end residential neighborhood where several of the retailers would fit the “synergy” criteria.

We’d be happy to meet with you to review your specifications and show you this and other properties that meet your needs. Please give us a call at (803) 802-2004.

With best regards,
Property Manager
Kuester