As a landlord in the Waco, TX area, keeping your tenants happy is key to your overall success. Happy tenants are known to take better care of their rental home and stay within it long-term. While many factors come into play when serving as a landlord, these five simple tips can get your landlord-tenant relationship off to the right start:
1.) Be clear about expectations within your lease agreement to limit confusion.
Ensure your rental agreement states your expectations concerning renters insurance, pets, smoking, overnight guests, etc. Monthly rent amounts and collection dates should be displayed as well. This way, there are no surprises as you start on this mutually beneficial partnership. Failure to be clear can be problematic. Once both parties sign a lease agreement, it is a challenge to amend until renewal.
2.) Respond quickly and appropriately to any needs or concerns.
Always address on-demand and preventative maintenance needs promptly. Doing so will prevent any significant problems in your home and make your tenants feel heard. Taking the time to respond (however minor) can put your tenant’s concerns at ease. Plus, if you let any issues fall through the cracks, there could be major, costly repairs in your future.
3.) Show your tenants that you care through small acts of kindness.
Birthday cards, thank you notes, and acknowledging major holidays go a long way in showing that you care for your tenants beyond just the rent check they provide. Believe it or not, such tiny, considerate acts can strengthen any professional relationship, including that of a tenant and a landlord. When tenants feel as if they are more than just a number, they tend to treat their home (and the person who owns it) well.
4.) Be respectful when entering your Waco, TX rental home.
Always provide notice before walking through or entering your Waco rental home by adhering to the terms listed in your lease agreement. Be polite by respecting your tenant’s space and time, handling any concerns in written form after that. Provide your tenants with the same privacy that you would expect if the tables were turned. Remember, while the house is technically yours, the “home” is theirs.
5.) Be sure to keep your annual rent increase percentage manageable.
While there currently are no rent control laws in Texas when a lease agreement is up, it is best to raise the rent a fair percentage, typically between 1% and 3% annually. Anything more than that can be a challenge for renters to make work each month, causing them to look for another rental home that fits within their budget. Holding on to a great tenant is always better than having a continuous turnover.
As a Property Management Company with over 30 years of experience, keeping tenants (and landlords!) happy is our specialty! Our comprehensive services include lease agreements, rent collection, property maintenance, marketing, and more. Feel free to give us a call today: 254-651-0576. We would love to hear from you!
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.