Landlord Quick Tip

Tip #107: Yes, You Can Show Occupied Properties

by James Safonov

landlord helpIt is important to have a clause in your lease permitting the landlord or agent to exhibit the rental to prospective renters and/or purchasers.

The only caveats are making sure you are doing so with proper notice and that you have a qualified applicant in hand.

The current occupants need to know you are bringing people into their homes who you have done a background on.  This also limits any potential wrong doing from opportunists “shopping” your occupied rental properties.

Proper notice is at least 24 hours–some tenants will give a verbal consent; however, I always encourage a 24 hour posting even if the tenant consents.

The proof of service in the file can save you if any discrepancy rises from entering the home.

James Safonov is a property manager with HomePointe in Sacramento, California, [email protected]. HomePointe provides full service property management, leasing, accounting, and maintenance.

See last week’s Landlord Quick Tip.

American Apartment Owners Association offers discounts on products and services for landlords related to your rental housing investment, including rental forms, tenant debt collection, tenant background checks, insurance and financing. Find out more at www.joinaaoa.org.