Managing rental properties comes with its fair share of challenges as a property owner. One of the most frustrating scenarios is having a professional tenant in your rental property.
What is a professional tenant? One of these renters might not be quite what you think, and they can be worse than dealing with difficult tenants!
In this blog, we'll explain who these tenants are and why you won't want them in your properties. We'll also provide tips for avoiding professional tenants and emphasize the importance of professional property management.
Understanding Professional Tenants
While you might think a "professional" tenant is someone who is really good at being a good tenant, that's not the case at all.
A professional tenant is an individual who manipulates the rental system, often taking advantage of landlords and exploiting legal loopholes for personal gain. They possess an in-depth knowledge of tenant laws and use their expertise to exploit landlords and stay in rental properties without paying rent or causing trouble.
While they might look like they will be good residents for your properties during the initial application process, it's important to recognize them before allowing them to move in. Identifying professional tenants can be challenging, but certain red flags can indicate their presence.
Tips for Avoiding Professional Tenants
How can property owners avoid these tenants in San Antonino? The best property management companies in San Antonio recommend the following best practices to keep them out of your rentals!
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Rigorous Tenant Screening: The first line of defense against professional tenants is a thorough screening process. Verify employment, income, and rental history, and conduct a background check to uncover any past rental issues or legal problems.
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Request References: Contact previous landlords to gather information about a potential tenant's payment history, property upkeep, and overall behavior as a renter.
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Financial Stability: Ensure the tenant has a stable income to afford the rental payments. Analyze their debt-to-income ratio and consider requiring a higher security deposit or a co-signer if necessary.
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Trust Your Gut: Pay attention to your instincts during the application and interview process. If something feels off or inconsistent, it's better to err on the side of caution and consider other applicants.
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Maintain Consistent Communication: Professional tenants often try to create a distance between themselves and the landlord. If you place one in your property and things start to go bad, establish open and transparent lines of communication from the start. Be wary of tenants who are difficult to reach or avoid meetings.
When checking a prospective tenant's reference, pay close attention to what they say. If more than one reference has a similar way of describing the applicant or promises they will be the best tenant you ever had, chances are these are "coached" references, often friends or relatives going along with the scam. This is a common tactic professional tenants use to build a case that they will be good renters for your properties.
The Benefits of Professional Property Management for Better Tenants
While being cautious during tenant selection is crucial, the best way to protect yourself from professional tenants is to hire a professional property management company, especially here in San Antonio.
The best property managers know how to spot these terrible tenants before they have a chance to move into your properties. Property management companies also have extensive knowledge of tenant laws and regulations, ensuring that your rental property is in compliance and protecting your interests. They are well-versed in legal procedures and documentation, shielding you from potential legal pitfalls that professional tenants may exploit.
To prevent the headache and costs that come from allowing professional tenants to move in, your property managers have well-established screening processes that effectively identify red flags, minimizing the risk of professional tenants occupying your property.
With a property management company taking care of the day-to-day operations and tenant-related matters, you can enjoy peace of mind, knowing that your property is in capable hands.
Additional Benefits of San Antonio Property Management
Protecting investors from professional tenants isn't the only reason to consider professional management! Residential property managers also handle rent collection, ensuring that payments are made on time and addressing any delinquencies promptly.
Your property manager will also have a network of trusted contractors who can handle maintenance and repair issues promptly, protecting the condition and value of your property.
Property owners in San Antonio experience better returns and fewer risks of bad tenants when partnering with a professional property management company!
Choose the Best Rental Property Management San Antonio Offers for Better Tenants
Professional tenants can wreak havoc on your rental property investment, leading to financial loss and unnecessary stress. By identifying their traits, implementing stringent tenant screening measures, and, most importantly, enlisting the services of a professional property management company, you can significantly reduce the risk of encountering professional tenants.
In San Antonio, MHN Property Management offers comprehensive rental property management services, ensuring that your investment is protected and your peace of mind is maintained. Contact us today to safeguard your rental property from professional tenants and enjoy the benefits of professional property management!
Learn what to look for in the right property manager for your properties and goals! Get our free resource, the "Guide to Finding the Best San Antonio Property Manager."
