February 2011: Rents - Do the Math

By Michael Mengden Monday, January 31, 2011

It is natural to want to obtain the highest rent possible when your property is vacant. A long vacancy can cause frustration, anxiety, and anger. However, holding out for more money can be more costly than you think. When this situation occurs, it is better to use a mathemati...

January 2011: Seven Proactive Ways to Avoid Risk

By Michael Mengden Friday, December 31, 2010

No investor wants to hear that there is a possible or definite lawsuit to defend. Although there are times you cannot avoid legal actions, most of the time, property owners can by being proactive. Here are seven positive steps to follow to reduce your risk. Never ignore nec...

December 2010: Planning for the New Year

By Michael Mengden Tuesday, November 30, 2010

As another year ends, many people take time to reflect on the past year. Generally, this leads to setting goals and making resolutions for the New Year. Our company is busy reviewing 2010 and planning on how we can improve our property management services to you, our clients. He...

November 2010: Never Ignore Water

By Michael Mengden Sunday, October 31, 2010

Water is a necessary element to support life and when it concerns rental property, water usage must be available to tenants. However, water can be destructive. This can come from an act of nature, such as a serious flood or hurricane. If there are repairs left unchecked in a ren...

October 2010: When It is NOT a Pet

By Michael Mengden Thursday, September 30, 2010

Ordinarily, property owners have the right to refuse animals while renting their property. However, there a specific circumstance exists when a dog, cat, or possibly another animal it is not considered a "pet." When a disabled person with an assistance animal applies to rent...

September 2010: Plan Winter Maintenance Now

By Michael Mengden Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Thinking about winter maintenance needs for your investment before the season hits can often save you money. An extra benefit is that it can help keep tenants happy. For example, if you wait until the rains or winds come and the roof leaks, you will be competing with everyone el...

August 2010: Are You Prepared?

By Michael Mengden Saturday, July 31, 2010

We continually work on educating tenants for any event that could happen during their tenancy. This includes making rental payments, reporting maintenance, handling emergencies/disasters, checking smoke alarms, practicing good neighbor policies, buying renter's insurance, and mo...

July 2010: When Handed Lemons, Make Lemonade

By Michael Mengden Wednesday, June 30, 2010

People have many fears when deciding to rent their home or contemplating buying an investment property. Horror stories abound about damage and difficult tenants. They have made many movies that portray outrageous tenant situations. Unfortunately, difficulties can arise and ...

June 2010: Mistakes Investors Should Avoid

By Michael Mengden Monday, May 31, 2010

The economy has certainly been volatile for the last few years. The stock market took a major nosedive, foreclosures have been rampant, and unemployment has risen to all time highs in many areas. However, in every market, there are opportunities and for some, now is a good time ...

May 2010: Renting and the Handicapped

By Michael Mengden Friday, April 30, 2010

Fair Housing is simple - do not discriminate. While this may be a basic principle, it is often not "easy" to follow, particularly in the area of handicapped or disabled persons. Many landlords often do not know or understand the legal requirements when it comes to renting to han...