Jacksonville Property Management Blog
The best move out checklist for landlords will closely resemble the checklist that’s used during the move in process. The idea is to compare the condition of your home before the tenants moved in and after they have vacated. This will be a crucial document when it comes to determining whether the full security deposit will be returned to the tenant or part of it will be withheld to pay for damages.
Moving In
Your move out checklist starts when a tenant moves in. Go through the property and note its condition in detail. Take a lot of pictures and don’t leave anything out. You want to document every room, each floor, the walls, the appliances, the closets, and the ceilings. Capture the condition of the paint, whether there are any visible scratches, and if something looks old or worn. Give your tenants the opportunity to contribute to this inspection report, and then make sure you and your tenants sign the move in checklist so everyone agrees on the condition of the home at move in.
Document Ongoing Maintenance
Throughout the lease term, keep careful records of any maintenance that’s performed at the property. Document anything that is fixed or replaced, and keep track of any problems that the tenants continue to have with appliances or systems. When you inspect the property, or send a contractor over to do work, make notes on how the home looks and whether there is any reason to be concerned about how a tenant is caring for it.
Moving Out
When tenants give notice of their intent to move out at the end of the lease, follow up immediately with your acknowledgement as well as a list of things they need to do before leaving. That might include cleaning requirements, returning keys, and replacing things like air filters, light bulbs, and smoke detector batteries. After the tenants and their belongings have been moved out, you need to go through the property with your move in checklist. Make notes and take pictures so you can see if anything has been damaged or changed. There is bound to be normal wear and tear, which you cannot charge the security deposit for. Small nail holes in the walls and scuff marks where furniture was placed will need to be allowed. However, if you notice torn carpet, large holes in your walls, or a filthy refrigerator that has rotting food in it, you can charge the tenant’s deposit for the cost of taking care of these items.
A good move out process starts when a tenant signs the lease. If you have any questions about this or anything pertaining to property management in Jacksonville, FL, please contact us at Heth Realty.
When you want to keep great tenants in your property for the long-term and protect its condition, you must know how to be a good landlord. Being a good landlord doesn’t mean you’ll develop a personal friendship with your tenants or let them get away with whatever they want. It means being consistent, fair, and responsive.
Good Landlords Communicate
Communication is critical, and a good landlord will communicate well with tenants, vendors and contractors, as well as HOAs and other public officials. Make sure you are available and responsive. When you’re signing the lease with your tenant, go over it in detail. Let your tenants know what they will be responsible for and what you expect during the term of the tenancy. Answer any questions and provide your contact information so they know how to reach you, especially in emergencies. Keep in touch with your tenants. You don’t have to bother them, but you can send them reminders to change their air filters or check in via email to see if things are going well.
Good Landlords Have Procedures
Tenants perform best when they know what to expect. Good landlords will have consistent policies and procedures in place, and they will follow them. If you attach a late fee to rental payments that aren’t in by the third of the month, for example, make sure you collect that fee. You have to follow the terms of the lease, and you need to let your tenants know that you’re serious about what you’ve said. If you promise to respond to all maintenance requests within 24 hours, make sure you do that. When you say you’re going to schedule a property inspection every six months, make sure you show up for it.
Good Landlords are Fair
When a responsible tenant runs into trouble one month and is late with rent, a good landlord will be understanding. You can still serve the three-day notice and require that the late fee be paid, but you can also make an arrangement that will help the tenant catch up. If a tenant requests new carpet or an upgraded appliance, be willing to hear their reasons. Maybe you can offer it in exchange for a lease renewal. When it’s time to renew the lease and the rental market is competitive, consider not raising the rent on a tenant who is following the lease terms, paying rent on time, and maintaining the home. Tenants will appreciate the fair treatment they receive from you, and it will encourage them to stay longer.
These are just a few tips on how to be a good landlord. We can help you with a lot of other ideas, so please don’t hesitate to contact us at Heth Realty for all your Jacksonville property management needs.
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