A long distance landlord is someone who does not live near their rental property. Landlording success is not determined by how close or far you live to your rentals. A few simple tips including income expense tracking for long distance landlords can make them a success.
Rely on the Community
When situations arise with the rental, like a broken toilet, long distance landlords cannot be there to remedy the situation. Instead, they have to rely on people who can be present and help quickly and successfully. Having an electrician, plumber, and handyperson that can address a situation quickly (and bill you later) will give you peace of mind. Adding to that local team can be a landscaper who will ensure your property looks good and is cared for. An alternative to organizing a local team would be hiring a property management company. It is important to interview a few to compare their services and fees.
Apply Technology
Technology is a long distance landlord’s friend. Something as simple as communicating with tenants by text or email can be easy and effective. Additionally, installing cameras around the property can provide safety measures for the tenant and give the long distance landlord a view of the property.
Screen Tenants
Having a tenant you can trust, that will take care of your rental property, and pay rent on time is every landlord’s dream. Screening tenants become even more important for long distance landlords. Taking the time to review applications, interviewing tenants, and performing background checks become essential in an attempt to finding great tenants.
Income expense tracking for long distance landlords is important, especially when the landlord is not able to do any of the work themselves. Free landlord accounting tools like RentalIncomeExpense.com make it easy for landlords to record income and expenses. Landlords can be successful even when they do not live close to their rental property.