Buying property in North Carolina can be exciting, especially since 65.9% of residents in the state are homeowners. With this excitement comes the prospect of renting out your property, which can generate extra income.
No one ever said it's easy being a landlord though, and it can be particularly stressful when it's your first time. But if you know what the best practices are, then you'll have a smoother and more successful experience.
Here are the rental leasing best practices for first-time landlords in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Familiarize Yourself With Local Laws
Landlord-tenant laws are different across the nation, so read up on North Carolina's laws and regulations before you rent out your property. This will prevent you from landing in hot water with your tenants and the law.
Pay close attention to the specific rules regarding security deposits, eviction procedures, lease agreements, and tenant rights. Taking some time now to understand these things will help you avoid legal troubles in the future.
Perform Thorough Tenant Screening
Tenant screening is a vital part of being a great landlord. You might not want to put in the additional work, but is it really worth chancing?
Without proper screening, you can get terrible renters who wreck your property. They may not leave at the end of their rental lease contracts either, and the eviction process can be challenging.
Conduct background and credit checks, and also contact references. Only rent to those with a stable income, good rental history, and no recent evictions. This will significantly raise the chances of you finding reliable tenants.
Create Detailed Lease Agreements
A comprehensive lease agreement is essential for not only your protection, but your renters' too. Clearly outline the terms and conditions of the lease agreements, which should include:
- Rent amount
- Due date
- Lease duration
- Security deposit
- Pet policy
- Maintenance responsibilities
Don't forget to include details about late fees, subletting, and property usage.
Use a Property Management Service
Whether you're a first-time landlord or a seasoned one with multiple properties, it's always a fantastic idea to utilize property management services. They'll take care of a number of tasks, including property marketing, tenant screening, rent collection, maintenance, financial reporting, lease renewals, and evictions.
With their help, you can truly enjoy a stream of passive income. You won't have to devote as much time and effort to being an active landlord, which means you can focus on your loved ones and passions.
Make Rental Leasing Easy in Charlotte, North Carolina
Rental leasing in Charlotte, North Carolina can be a stressful matter for a first-time landlord. However, if you read up on local laws, perform tenant screening, and create detailed lease agreements, you'll have an easier time.
Most importantly, if you use a property management service, you're bound to have a positive experience. You won't have to pull your hair out when dealing with renters, as the professionals will do it for you.
We'll make your job easier with our services. Contact us now for quality property management services in Charlotte.
