Resident Benefits Package | Benefits So Good, You May Never Want to Leave

June 9, 2023

Every resident deserves to feel secure and supported in their home. That’s why we’re excited to share our Resident Benefits Package by Second Nature, which includes a variety of valuable services! At RentWise Property Management, all of our residents get the #1, most-awarded experience for tenants!

What is a Resident Benefits Package & Who is Second Nature?

Filter Delivery Service

Our residents will automatically receive their HVAC filter delivered right to their door! This saves up to $250 per year and helps to maintain the integrity of the HVAC system for efficiency.

Credit Building

We’ll report every rent payment that you make so that you can continue to build your credit! We also can report up to the past 24 months for an immediate boost in your score. This will come in especially handy if, down the road you decide it’s time to purchase a home. Lenders love to see a strong credit history and timely payments being made.

$1M in Identity Protection

1 in 4 Americans are victims of identity fraud. All adult leaseholders get $1M in identity protection!

Resident Rewards

Each time you make an on-time rent payment, you’ll be rewarded! Residents can earn gift cards and substantial savings while shopping in the marketplace!

Additional Benefits for Residents

Want to learn more about our services or how to become one of our happy tenants? Contact us at 208-949-3083 or check out our website at www.rentwisepm.com.

10 Essential Tips for a Smooth Move into Your New Rental Home

May 16, 2023

Moving into a new rental home can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned renter, there are always new challenges and experiences to navigate. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips and insights to help make your transition as smooth as possible.

Take an inventory of the condition of the premises: Before you start moving your belongings into the rental home, take a walk around and check for any damages or existing issues. Document any damage you find with photos and notes. This will help you avoid any disputes with the landlord over damage you didn’t cause.

Clean the rental home: Even if the rental home looks clean, it’s always a good idea to give it a deep clean before you start unpacking. Scrub the floors, clean the windows, wipe down the surfaces, and make sure everything is spotless.

Set up utilities: Make sure you take care of any utilities that need to be set up in your name, such as electricity, gas, and internet. You don’t want to move into a new home and be stuck without any power or internet.

Change your address: Notify the post office, your bank, and other important contacts of your new address. This will help ensure that you receive your mail and important documents at your new rental home.

Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors: Make sure that all smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. If they’re not, notify your landlord immediately so they can be fixed or replaced.

Check the locks: Test all locks on doors and windows to make sure they’re working properly. If any locks are not secure, notify your landlord immediately.

Get renter’s insurance: Renter’s insurance can help protect your belongings in case of theft or damage. Getting this set up before you move in is a good idea and is usually required by your landlord.

Meet your neighbors: Introduce yourself to your neighbors and get to know them. They can be a valuable resource if you need help or have any questions about the area.

Familiarize yourself with the neighborhood: Take a walk around the neighborhood to get familiar with the area. Find out where the nearest grocery store, gas station, and other important locations are.

Set up your furniture and belongings: Finally, it’s time to start moving in your furniture and other belongings. Take your time setting up everything in the way that works best for you.

Moving into a new rental home is a significant milestone, and we hope that the information we’ve shared has been helpful to you. Remember to take things one step at a time, stay organized, and don’t be afraid to reach out for help if you need it. With a little patience and perseverance, you’ll be settled into your new home before you know it! If you are in the market for your next dream home, please be sure to visit our Available Properties and schedule a viewing! It is our motto to make the moving process LESS HASSLE, MORE HAPPY!

Appliances in a Rental Property | Caring For and Maintaining Your Investment

February 24, 2023

Rental Property Owners who provide appliances to their tenants are taking a big step to ensure their tenants have a comfortable and enjoyable living experience. These appliances can be as simple as a refrigerator, stove, or washing machine or more complex items like a dishwasher, air conditioner, or clothes dryer. Having these appliances available to tenants can make a big difference in the quality of life for those living on the property. Not only does it make living in the property more convenient, but it can also help save tenants money in the long run as they won’t have to purchase and maintain their own appliances.

Investing in quality appliances for your tenants helps you to maintain a competitive edge and, in turn, results in higher rents. Unfortunately, not everyone will treat your investment with the same care that you would. While it is impossible to watch tenants 24/7, it’s important to understand which appliances are prone to damage and when you can expect to replace them.

We’ve covered a few of the top appliances and how you can make the most of your investment.

Refrigerator

The refrigerator is one of the most common pieces of rental property that tends to receive damage. Refrigerators can experience a number of issues, from dents and scratches to water damage and even potential issues with the compressor. Most refrigerators are designed with a life span of 10-20 years, so if it’s an older model, it may be due for an upgrade.

Here are some things that tenants can do to increase the lifespan of the refrigerator with minimal issues:

Keep Things Dust Free. Always ensuring that the refrigerator is clean and remains free of dust will help to keep the compressor running smoothly. This can be accomplished by vacuuming the coils, and wiping down the interior and exterior surfaces of the fridge. Additionally, keeping the fridge away from heat sources and pulling the unit from the wall to maintain a safe distance will keep the fridge from working too hard.
Overstuffing. Poor circulation in a refrigerator and freezer comes from packing the units to the max. It is a great idea to notice where the interior fans are and ensure that your groceries are not blocking any of them. This will help prevent the motor from overworking and burning out too quickly.

Dishwasher

Another appliance that often requires attention is the dishwasher. Dishwashers can suffer from various issues, including clogged drains, rusting, and issues with the heating elements. Dishwashers tend to last around 9-12 years, and here are some things you can do to make the most of this handy appliance:

Clean the Filter Regularly. Clean the filter regularly to ensure that food particles and other debris aren’t clogging up the system.
Don’t Overload. Overloading the dishwasher can cause the system to run inefficiently and can cause it to overheat, leading to damage.
Run a Cycle with Vinegar. Running a cycle with a cup of vinegar every few months can help to reduce the buildup of limescale, rust, and other materials.

Stove

Stoves usually last around 12-15 years with the proper care and attention. If you’re renting a home with an older model, it’s important to keep an eye on it. There are a few tried and true ways to keep your unit in tip-top shape for many years.

Keep it Clean. Make sure to clean your stove and oven regularly to remove any grease or residue that can build up over time. Be sure to use a stove/oven safe cleaner to ensure that you are not damaging the cooktop or interior of the unit. Cleaning the drip pans often. Further, be sure to check the door seal. This keeps the oven from working overtime and protects the heating elements.
Regularly Inspect the Burners and Heating Elements. A quick once-over at least twice per year will help to address any functionality issues.

Washer & Dryer

Washers and dryers typically last around 10-15 years , so it’s important to be mindful of the age if you’re providing these appliances to renters. Staying on top of regular maintenance will ensure that your washer and dryer have a long and productive life.

Don’t Overload. One of the most common maintenance issues with a washing machine is that they can go off balance from time-to-time. Filling the unit with the proper amount of laundry and not overloading will help to prevent this.
Clean the Vents. Ensure that the venting of the dryer is cleaned out at least twice a year and that the lint trap is emptied after each use.
Inspect the Water Hoses. It’s important to ensure that the water supply hoses are inspected every six months and replaced every five years.

It’s important for landlords to plan for wear and tear in a rental property. Regularly inspecting the flooring and appliances, as well as establishing a preventative maintenance plan, can help reduce the need for repairs and replacements. By taking the time to plan ahead, landlords can save time and money in the long run.

In Conclusion, here at RentWise Property Management, our entire focus is providing a positive experience for both our residents and our property owners. We complete Bi-Annual Inspections on every property we manage so that we can get ahead of any concerns. To learn more about our property management services, visit us at www.rentwisepm.com

How to Declutter Like a Pro: Making the Most of Your Rental Space

January 26, 2023

Decluttering is scientifically proven to reduce stress, increase the ability to focus, and helps to combat feelings of depression. If you’re a renter, then you know how difficult it can be to keep your living space organized and clutter-free. It’s easy to let things pile up over time, especially when you don’t own the space and don’t plan to stay in it for too long. But don’t worry because there are plenty of simple and effective decluttering tips you can use to help you keep your rented space organized!

Take a walk through your home and identify the items you don’t need. This might include anything from clothes and shoes to old magazines, DVDs, and even furniture. Make a list of all the items you plan to get rid of, and then decide what you’ll do with them. You might choose to donate them, sell them, or simply throw them away.

Once you’ve identified the items you don’t need, it’s time to start organizing the things you do want to keep. Take advantage of vertical storage solutions like shelves, bookcases, and over-the-door hooks to maximize your space and make it easier to find things. You can also use bins and baskets to store items that don’t need to be seen.

When it comes to bigger items like furniture, try to choose pieces that won’t take up too much room. Invest in multi-functional items like an ottoman with storage, a coffee table with drawers, or a futon that can be used as both a sofa and a bed.

Finally, don’t forget to keep your living space tidy regularly. Make it a habit to take 10-15 minutes each day to pick up clutter, dust, and vacuum. This small investment of time can make a big difference in the overall appearance of your home.

Here is a breakdown of our 10 Favorite Decluttering Tips:

Donate, sell, or give away any items you no longer need or use.
Create a designated spot for frequently used items, like keys, phone chargers, and mail.
Utilize storage bins or baskets to keep items like blankets, pillows, and books organized.
Utilize vertical space with shelves and racks to store items like spices, canned goods, and cleaning supplies.
Use drawer and cabinet organizers to keep items like cutlery and dishes orderly.
Invest in furniture that has additional storage like ottomans, armoires, and sofas with built-in drawers.
Hang items like coats and hats on wall hooks, or in closets.
Utilize the back of doors to store items like cleaning supplies and scarves.
Consolidate similar items, like craft or office supplies, into one storage container
Label storage containers, shelves, and bins to make items easier to find.

If you’re like us, we love a good list or guide to help with visual progress. Here are two fantastic guides to help you on your journey of a wonderfully organized home.

If you would like to know more about how RentWise Property Management does property management, visit us at www.rentwisepm.com, where we make finding your dream rental a LESS HASSLE, MORE HAPPY experience!

We hope these decluttering tips help you keep your rented space organized and clutter-free. Good luck!

Winter Preventative Plumbing Essentials | Pro Tips to Protect Your Pipes in the Winter Months

January 2, 2023

The general rule of thumb when it comes to plumbing freezing in the winter is that if the temperature outside drops below 32°F (0°C), the pipes inside your home may be at risk of freezing. If the temperature drops significantly lower than that, such as in the teens or single digits, it’s even more likely that your plumbing could freeze.

Generally, a frozen pipe can burst in as little as a few hours if the temperature is cold enough and the pressure is high enough. To help prevent this from happening, it’s important to keep pipes from freezing in the first place by insulating them, keeping the temperature of your home above freezing, and ensuring that pipes are properly maintained.

To keep your home’s plumbing safe during the winter months, here are some tips that you should consider:

Insulate Exposed Pipes

Uninsulated pipes in exposed areas like the attic, crawl spaces, and garage are especially vulnerable to freezing temperatures. Make sure to use proper insulation materials to protect them.

Fiberglass insulation, foam insulation, and heat tape are all excellent options for insulating plumbing to keep it from freezing. Fiberglass insulation comes in rolls that are easy to install around plumbing pipes. Foam insulation comes in pre-cut shapes and sizes that fit around pipes and can be sealed to the wall with caulk. Plumbing heat tape is an electrical heating element that is used to keep pipes from freezing in cold climates. It is a self-regulating, insulated cable that is wrapped around the pipe. When the temperature drops below freezing, the heat tape turns on, providing just enough heat to keep the pipes from freezing.

Keep Cabinets Open

If you have exposed pipes within your cabinets, keep the doors open to allow warm air to circulate. If you notice a drip or any signs of water, turn off the water shutoff valve and immediately put a bucket down to ensure that your space does not flood.

Disconnect Water Hoses and Insulate Outdoor Faucets and Spigots

Make sure to disconnect all water hoses from exterior faucets and spigots to prevent freezing. If you have outdoor faucets, make sure to insulate them with specially designed covers or wrap them in foam insulation. You can easily find these on Amazon or at your local hardware store.

Inspect for Leaks

Check your property for any signs of water leaks or dripping faucets, as these can lead to frozen pipes. Furthermore, if you are not going to be at home for more than 24 hours, you should consider having a third party frequently check your home for any signs of compromised plumbing. If you notice any signs of water spots, report those to your property manager and maintenance coordinator immediately.

Maintain Consistent Indoor Temperatures

Generally, it is recommended that you keep your thermostat at a minimum of 65°F to prevent plumbing from freezing. If your home cannot maintain a consistent temperature due to a power outage, it is important to take measures to protect your home’s plumbing to avoid costly repairs. It is recommended to keep each faucet at a slow drip to relieve water pressure and prevent freezing.

Know Where the Main Shutoff Valve Is – In case of an emergency, it’s important to know where the main shutoff valve is located so you can quickly shut off the water.

If you are renting your home, be sure to have the steps to file a maintenance work order handy.

Our top priority at RentWise Property Management is to care for your home as if it were our own. We know your investment is important to you, and you want it maintained both financially and physically. As you can see, there are many effective ways to protect your property. We care about our property owners and tenants just like our friends and family. We would love to have you as part of our RentWise Family! For more information on how we make things “Less Hassle, More Happy”- visit us here!

Don’t Get Your Tinsel In A Tangle | Easy Damage-Free Holiday Decorating Tips For Renters

November 30, 2022

The holiday season is officially upon us. There are few things more exciting than decorating your home for the holidays, putting up the lights, and decorating the tree. As property managers, we always want our residents to feel at home! We also need to ensure that our owner’s properties remain in good condition and minimize any maintenance issues. Aside from checking your lease and complying with decorating standards, we’ve provided a few quick and easy tips for damage-free decorating!

Damage-Free Decorating Tips and Ideas

Tension Rods for Garland

Framing your front door with garland looks gorgeous! However, it may seem impossible to hang without nails or screws, right? Consider using a tension rod (shower or curtain) and hang the garland from that! This one is so easy and takes hardly any time at all. Measure your doorway, find a tension rod that meets your taste, and suspend the garland from the tension rod for a beautiful, holiday-themed entryway. There will be zero damage to the door frame, and you can use this trick for years to come!

You can purchase a high-quality tension rod like this one on Amazon for under $30.

Adhesive Hooks & Strips for Wreaths and Wall Decor

Piggybacking off of beautiful garland, every holiday door loves a good wreath! You don’t need a nail and hammer to hang a wreath. Simply place a damage-free adhesive hook on the door, and you have a beautiful home for your holiday wreath in one minute or less. You can also use adhesive strips to hang wall decor on the interior of your home year-round!

Flameless Candles

Nothing says holiday ambiance like a beautiful tablescape with candles to make a home feel warm and cozy. Am I right? The holiday season brings the most significant risk of house fires than any time throughout the rest of the year. Removing open flames from your home and replacing them with beautiful flameless candle options is one way to mitigate this risk. There are so many wonderful options out there! You can even get a large package of candles with timers and remotes, like these, and have your home glowing each day when you return!

Adhesive clips, Shingle Clips, and Gutter Hooks

Hanging Christmas lights can feel like a headache, right? Even on the best of days, something is tangled, or one bulb is missing. Once you get through that, these S-shaped clips will make decking the halls a breeze! Adhesive clips will work on smooth vinyl siding, and single clips will help to frame your home by positioning the lights near the roofline. Be sure not to put too much weight on the clips placed on the gutters, as the weight of snow/ice/and lights could cause the gutter to detach and fall.

Window Cling Theme Setters

One of the most beautiful sights to see during the holidays are windows that have been decorated and glowing in the night light. Window clings are one of the easiest ways to set the scene are with window clings such as these. These decorations are applied to the interior side of your window and can easily be peeled off at the end of the season without leaving any residue. Window clings are also a safe and fun way to include younger family members in decorating by allowing them to place the decorations themselves.

Wrapping Up

See what we did there? Our entire motto here at RentWise Property Management is LESS HASSLE, MORE HAPPY! We believe that should apply to all things in life. The relationships, business practices and process we have built and continue to build guarantees our focus is on providing the best possible experience and pricing in our industry. Furthermore, if you want more information on incorporating our LESS HASSLE, MORE HAPPY motto into your investment property portfolio, visit us at www.rentwisepm.com!