How To Manage Rental Property Remotely

Tips For Managing Tenants Remotely

Tenant screening

Tenant screening is imperative when it comes to rental properties. There’s nothing worse than putting a tenant into a property who ends up defaulting on payment, then having to evict the tenant and leave the property vacant again. To do this remotely, you can simply send an application form via email and get this e-signed and emailed back to you.

Then you’ll need to ensure that you do background checks, credit checks, income verification and rental history checks. Together, this information should give you a good idea as to whether tenants will be likely to default on payments or not. There are many online platforms that can offer you these services which we’ll take at later in this article.

Collecting rent

One of the most difficult aspects to managing tenants remotely is getting rental payments on time. The way to make sure that this happens is by using digital payment platforms to set up a system where you’re either paid via credit, debit or a direct bank transfer. This will ensure that you receive rent payments on time, and directly into your bank account.

Managing viewings remotely

You can hire a professional property manager in the area to show your property to prospective tenants, or even someone you may know in the area (a friend or family member). Either way, this should be someone you trust and feel comfortable giving access to your property, and someone whose opinion will be helpful for you in determining whether the tenant is a good fit.

As part of this viewing, the person will need to do a move-in inspection. A move-out inspection will also need to be done, so you should check with the person to see if they’re willing to do both for you. A property manager will charge one month’s rent to help you find a tenant to occupy your rental property.  

Managing contractors remotely

A small team of contractors that you trust will be a game changer for managing your rental property. From cleaning services to handymen, plumbers and electricians, do your research first and find a team that you can trust. These contractors can also be your eyes and ears on the property for any repairs or maintenance that needs to be done. It’s a good idea to get a few quotes initially, to make sure that contractors aren’t taking advantage of the fact that you’re not there.

A great handyman is the best place to start. Once you’ve developed a good relationship with a handyman who you can trust, they can be your go-to person for any issues with the property and can even oversee other projects that need to be done.

Keeping up with your landlord responsibilities

The best way to keep up with everything you’re responsible for, as a landlord, is to use property management software. This software gives you the tools to successfully manage your rental property from the comfort of your own home. Here’s what is included:

• Tenant section: Where you can manage your relationship with tenants and communicate, send documents and so on.
• Rent payment: So that you don’t need to worry about collecting checks.
• Maintenance: Tenants can submit requests for maintenance or repairs through some of these portals, which is easy to do and saves landlords from having to visit the property as tenants can assess the situation and send photos.