Test Only Property managers need to perform a certain amount of due diligence when investigating the frequent occurrence of tenants who complain about mold. Sometimes there is a problem, other times there is not. A test only company will perform an inspection of the unit, collect moisture readings, and collect samples to confirm or rule…
An important priority for many homeowners is protecting their investment by keeping their home as clean and well-maintained as possible. Plumbing, landscaping, and remodeling are just a few common things that homeowners seek to improve when it comes to maintaining the look and functionality of their homes. But, what about deck maintenance? Protecting one’s deck…
Ben is like a lot of savvy longtime apartment owners. He’s been in the multifamily game since the early 80s and has gradually built up a solid, impressive portfolio of profitable buildings. Whether its issues with tenants, vendors or dealing with rough neighborhoods, he’s never been afraid to get his hands dirty. Gang members have…
Well, the New Year is quickly approaching and, with it, a new round of laws affecting landlords. On September 30, 2012, Governor Jerry “Moonbeam” Brown signed several bills into law which, in one way or another, directly affect landlords. Each law is set forth below with its original Bill designation, as well as the law’s…
Operating rental properties and dealing with your tenants are not separate jobs. They are inseparable parts of landlording. I owe a great deal of my real estate success to my landlording abilities. Some folks argue that professional property managers are paid a decent percentage of the gross rental income to relieve owners of this thankless…
I just locked down a 2.875% interest rate, fixed for the 15-year term of the mortgage. No points. With rates like these, I find myself rethinking the idea that I want to pay off my mortgage. I can do a lot better than 2.875% investing the money. If I just sock it away in gold,…
If you’ve missed some of the prior articles, basic “beginner” guidelines on successful investing are in my book “Stairway to Wealth” available at www.lulu.com A correspondent recently presented the question: should she buy her next building in a bread ‘n butter area and benefit from a higher cash flow, or should she buy in a…
Question 1: A tenant recently got a DMV handicap plate and he requested a handicap parking space. What are the requirements for the landlord to provide him with a handicap parking space? He has a carport parking space presently. The apartment complex is 17 units and has 25 parking spaces.
Question One: I have a rent controlled unit in the City ofLos Angeles. Last month I increased my tenant’s rent, the annual raise of 3%. I now realize that an additional person is occupying that premises. Am I entitled to raise the rent again, or do I have to wait another year to do so?…
As a whole, apartment owners are law abiding investors who try to conduct their business in an honest fashion. Indeed, they have too much to lose to intentionally violate the myriad of federal, state and local laws that apply to residential income property. Occasionally, some transgressions will unintentionally (or even willfully) occur, such as…