Landlord Tips: Top 7 Tips That New Landlords Must Know

Brad Smith • March 24, 2021

Being a landlord can be quite challenging, especially when you are a new landlord.


Some important landlord tasks are:


  • Collecting rent online


  • Finding and screening tenants


  • Creating and following a rental agreement

7 Important Landlord Tips

Here are the top 7 tips for first-time landlords:

  • Finding tenants online:

    Most tenants search for their next apartment online. The most effective way to find tenants is by creating an online rental listing. A rental listing that advertises your requirements and highlights your best features is the best way to attract good tenants who will:
  1. Pay rent on time
  2. Take care of the rental property

  • Setting the right rent price:

    To set the right rent price, you should research your market to know the fair market rent price in your area. Pricing
    your rental at rent price means the difference between vacancies and attracting good renters so you can quickly rent your property. To compare your rental income to costs, you need to list your fixed and estimated expenses. By comparing income to expenses, you can more easily see how the rent price affects your monthly revenue.

  • Enforcing and following the rules:

    Your
    rental agreement will lose its importance if you do not enforce rules the proper rules. If you do not enforce rules, tenants will notice and might take advantage of your leniency. The most important rule you should enforce is your late rent fee. 

  • Having a written rental agreement:

    Having a written rental agreement is the best way to:

  1. Express your expectations
  2. Protect yourself in legal situations

    It can create a good landlord-tenant relationship. It provides timeline stipulations and sets up a process for your response to tenants who have property issues.


  • Keeping digital records of everything:

    As a landlord, you must keep records of everything such as:

  1. Rent receipts
  2. Deposit receipts
  3. Maintenance receipts
  4. Landlord-tenant communications

    It is a wise idea to have evidence to back up your claims. Manage your business professionally by keeping good records. Keeping records digitally is the most up-to-date and organized way.

  • Creating and following tenant screening:

    The main goal of tenant screening is finding good tenants who will pay the rent on time and take care of your property. Look for the renters who:
  1. Have no criminal history
  2. Can pay in full each month
  3. Have a good rental background

    Filter out responsible tenants from the several applications you may receive to select good tenants.


  • Treating rental property like a business:
    Managing the
    rental property is a business and an additional source of income. The best ways to run a successful rental property business are:
  1. Being professional
  2. Preventing tenant issues 
  3. Following the state laws
  4. Keeping your finances in mind
  5. Protecting yourself from liability

    Before the renters move in, it is important to keep your finances intact and perform a thorough screening of tenants.

Consclusion

Being a first-time landlord is a lot and you will probably get overwhelmed. But it is all a part of the growing process, so you should embrace it instead of resisting it.


From managing your rental property business, finding tenants, and collecting rent, every step along the way matters. With the right landlord tips, being a landlord will not be challenging.

Interested In Working With Us?

If you need any help regarding your business or other legal matters please reach out to us directly here and schedule a call with one of our paralegals on our scheduling page here.

Interested in Working With Us?

If you need help with estate planning or any other legal concerns, we are here for you. Don't hesitate to contact our firm directly for assistance. Our dedicated team is ready to provide support and guidance to you and your loved ones during important life transitions.


Whether you're ready to schedule a strategy session to discuss your specific needs or if you're interested in exploring our wide range of complimentary guides and additional resources, we encourage you to get in touch with us.


With licensed attorneys and offices located in both Illinois and Missouri, we are well-equipped to serve clients in these regions. Reach out to us today and let us leverage our expertise and care to guide you through the legal process.

Helpful Guides

Begin your journey by taking advantage of our collection of complimentary guides.

View Guides

Online Documents

Simple & Convenient, Cost Effective, Attorney Reviewed Documents.

Learn More Here

Recent Posts

Stock market got you nervous?
By Joe Dalton April 4, 2025
It might be time to consider a Roth IRA. Here's why.
Show More
Stock market got you nervous?
By Joe Dalton April 4, 2025
It might be time to consider a Roth IRA. Here's why.
March 6, 2025
Whether due to a sudden illness, an unexpected hospitalization, or other urgent situations, it's important to know what essential documents should be in place and how an attorney can help ensure a smooth transition for your loved ones.
March 6, 2025
Click HERE To View March Newsletter
February 28, 2025
Understanding the difference between an heir and a beneficiary can help you navigate estate planning more effectively and ensure that your wishes are carried out properly.
February 21, 2025
Estate planning is about more than just dividing assets; it’s about making sure your wishes are honored when it comes to your health, finances, and legacy.
February 14, 2025
Beyond understanding the medical aspects, there are critical legal steps you should take to safeguard your rights, clarify your wishes, and prepare for any unexpected situations.
More Posts
Share by: