It is important to attract and keep great tenants when
you own investment property. A good way to begin a positive tenant/landlord
relationship is with clear communication about what you expect from your tenants
and what they can expect from you.
The written lease agreement spells out the legal obligations of each
party--the landlord must ensure that the property is habitable and complies with
local codes, and the tenant must pay the rent in a timely manner and not damage
the property. Make sure that the terms of the agreement are stated clearly in
straightforward language.
Let the tenants know of your commitment to keep the property in good
repair and of your desire to know about little problems before they become
serious. When it's time for the tenants to move, offer to provide a reference
letter if they need one. This is a nice way to say "thank you" to them
for having maintained the property during the terms of their lease. Good
communication can help you to maintain the quality of your investment.
