A Checklist for Renting a Property

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If you are a first-time landlord, renting a house for the first time can be overwhelming. In many cases, moving can be just as stressful for landlords as it is for tenants. If you plan to rent out your house or apartment, you will need to become familiar with all of the legalities and regulations involved in leasing a property. There are certain rights and responsibilities that you are legally bound to as a property owner and landlord.

Becoming a landlord and leasing property can be a stable form of income for many people and come with many benefits. You will be able to create passive income and could build up savings for your retirement. You will want to look at the surrounding area and your local market to determine your rental prices. You’ll want to make sure that you are getting enough money for your property to at least cover your expenses, including any mortgage and tax payments as well as insurance and maintenance.

There are some things to consider to get the most out of your rental and ensure that you are providing quality housing. As discussed, rules and regulations within each state and city will dictate some of your actions. Outside of this, however, some things will require your attention to provide a safe and comfortable rental. Let’s take a look at some things that you should know before you rent out a house.

Safety

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The safety of your tenants and your property should be your top priority. You will need to ensure that there are working smoke alarms and CO2 detectors on every floor of the home. You will also need to ensure that there are locks or other security measures on all doors and windows. There will also need to be clear and accessible exits in the event of an emergency. Additionally, you will want to check the soundness of all structural aspects of the house, as well as any fireplaces and chimneys.

Aside from the safety features and soundness of the house, you’ll want to make sure that all appliances in the home are in working order and free of any safety hazards. If you need to do appliance repairs, you should complete those before the tenants move in. You should test everything from the dishwasher and washing machine to the stove and microwave. You’ll want to make sure that all appliances are safe to operate and use. Depending on where your property is located, you can find qualified repair technicians to help you solve any problems. If you are in Bend, Oregon, for example, search for “Bend appliance repair” to find an appliance repair company near you.

Repairs

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While you are inspecting the property, you will want to check for any repairs that need to be made to the home. The major systems of the house need to be in working order to provide a comfortable unit. If you find that a toilet continually stops up, for example, you will want to have a plumber come check it out. The same will be true for the HVAC and electrical systems.

If you notice a leaky roof or problems with the shingles, flashing, or sheathing, you will want to get roof repair completed as soon as possible. To prevent any mold or moisture and to protect the ceilings and walls, you’ll want to take care of any problems with the roofing system quickly. A roof leak could lead to major problems and repairs in a short time.

Before you decide to rent your property, you will ensure that the entire home is safe and in working order. An inspection of your property should include a thorough check of the home’s safety, security, and soundness.