Owner FAQ

How long does it take to start managing the property?

We will be ready within the first 72 Business hours after signing the Property Management Agreement.

How long does it take to find tenants?

Our goal is to find suitable tenants as soon as possible. In order to do this, we use various advertising platforms. Each property and market are unique. When rentals are accurately priced, we generally see vacancies filled within 4 weeks.

How do the application fees work?

Tenants pay application fees. Application fees cover the cost of checking employment and landlord references as well as processing requisite paperwork.

How do you collect the rent?

Our goal is to get you paid as soon as possible. We accomplish this by accepting rent online through our AppFolio portal.

What is the process of determining the proper rent for my property?

We conduct rent surveys. Rent surveys are the single most effective tool for evaluating rental rates as the market is nuanced, local and ever changing. We also use the latest technology to analyze large data sets collected from third party real estate platforms.

Do you screen tenants?

Yes, we screen all prospective tenants. Quality tenants are the life blood of your rental property. Our screening process evaluates tenants by conducting credit checks and employment verifications. We comply with legal regulations and best practices to reduce the risk of allowing sub-par tenants into your property.

Can I keep my current insurance?

Please verify with your insurance provider that you hold the optimal balance of liability and property insurance coverage. We require proof of insurance of $1,000,000 before we begin managing any property. Your insurance policy will not cover the tenants’ personal belongings. We require all tenants to provide copies of renters insurance before they move in. One of the most effective ways to protect your investment is insisting on correct insurance policies for your property.

What does my tenant have to do before the move-in?

All tenants must be approved through our screening process. Once they are approved, they must review and sign the lease agreement, pay the full security deposit, pay the first months rent and provide proof of adequate renters’ insurance.

What is the Tenant Move-Out process?

When a tenant moves out, we conduct an inspection comparing the condition of the property to the video, photos and move-in inspection report. The cost to repair damage in excess of legally defined “normal wear and tear” will be deducted from the tenants security deposit. If the property is maintained in the same condition we will provide them with written documentation and their security deposit will be returned to them in full.

What kind of inspections do you conduct?

Maintaining the physical condition of your property is essential. We conduct move-in and move-out inspections to ensure your property is maintained. We find that annual physical inspections help tenants better maintain the property. These inspections are carefully documented through photo, video and written records.

Who pays for utilities?

Tenants pay for their own utilities. For properties where utilities are not separately metered the tenants will pay thier own pro rata share of utilities. Generally landlords pay for property taxes, homeowners insurance and property maintenance. These cost allocations can be negotiated between landlord and tenant.

What if my tenant doesn’t pay rent on time?

Payment details and potential penalties an are carefully outlined in our lease agreements. After proper notice and in compliance with state and local laws, a tenant’s failure to pay rent will result in eviction.

What happens if a tenant damages my property?

Despite rigorous oversight, property damage does occasionally occur. When it does we contact our licensed partners in the construction trades. They asses the damage, provide a bid and we select the best vendor based on price and terms. We will update you throughout the duration of the work. We hold tenants financially responsible to the greatest extent permitted by state and local laws.

Are tenants allowed to smoke on my property?

No. Smoking restrictions are carefully detailed in the lease agreement with the tenant. In most instances smoking on the property is cause for eviction.

Does hiring a property manager lead to loss of all control?

No. It is important that you have as much visibility as you want. We insist on following carefully documented procedures that enable you to quickly determine the financial, physical and rental conditions of your property.

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The Kilpelainen Team has been our property manager for over a year–Outstanding Service! They address issues quickly. Lori is friendly, organized and professional. Paperwork is accurate, clear to understand and on time. We are out of state, so knowing our Central Coast property is in trustworthy hands provides us peace of mind. Thank YOU!

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