rentwisepm Archives - RentWise Property Management

Thanksgiving Hosting: Balancing Safety and Fun in Your Home

November 15, 2023

Thanksgiving is a time to come together with family and friends to express gratitude, share a delicious meal, and create lasting memories. If you’re the lucky one hosting this year’s festivities, your priority is to ensure everyone’s safety and, of course, to have a great time. We’ll guide you through hosting a Thanksgiving celebration that’s not only fun but also safe for everyone.

Plan and Organize

Before the big day arrives, create a plan. Start with a guest list and consider dietary restrictions or allergies. Organizing ahead of time allows you to prepare a well-balanced menu and ensure everyone’s needs are met.

Food Safety

Food is at the heart of Thanksgiving, but it’s also a potential source of foodborne illness. Follow these tips:

Thaw Safely: If you’re cooking a frozen turkey, ensure it’s thawed in the refrigerator, not on the counter.
Proper Cooking: Cook poultry to an internal temperature of 165°F (73.9°C) and use a food thermometer to be sure.
Leftovers: Store leftovers within two hours and consume them within a safe timeframe.

Fire Safety

Thanksgiving often involves a lot of cooking, so be mindful of fire safety:

Keep Flammable Items Away: Ensure kitchen towels, pot holders, and curtains are away from the stovetop.
Fire Extinguisher: Have a working fire extinguisher nearby.
Never Leave the Kitchen Unattended: Stay in the kitchen when cooking and turn off the stove when done.

Home Safety

Make sure your home is safe for guests, especially if you’re expecting children and elderly family members:

Clear Walkways: Remove any clutter and tripping hazards.
Secure Rugs: Ensure rugs are non-slip or use rug grips to prevent falls.
Proper Lighting: Make sure the pathways are well-lit, especially if guests arrive after dark.

Alcohol Responsibly

Thanksgiving often includes alcohol, so encourage responsible drinking. Provide non-alcoholic alternatives for designated drivers, and keep an eye on your guests’ alcohol consumption to ensure everyone stays safe.

Entertainment

Keep the mood festive with fun activities and entertainment. Plan a few games, or encourage guests to share stories of gratitude. These moments can make your Thanksgiving gathering truly memorable.

Be a Gracious Host

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, so be a gracious host. Welcome your guests warmly, provide comfortable seating, and make them feel at home. This will set the stage for a joyful and memorable celebration.

Clean-Up

Once the festivities are over, ensure a thorough clean-up. This prevents accidents and makes your home safe and welcoming for future gatherings.

Hosting Thanksgiving can be a delightful and safe experience with the right preparation. By following these tips, you’ll be able to focus on creating cherished moments with your loved ones, knowing that everyone is in good hands and can fully enjoy the holiday. Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving!

The Role of Property Managers in Real Estate Investing

October 1, 2023

Real estate investing can be a lucrative endeavor, but it often comes with a range of responsibilities that can be overwhelming for property owners. This is where property managers step in. Their role is more than just collecting rent; they play a crucial part in the success of your real estate investments. In this blog, we’ll explore the significant role property managers play in real estate investing.

1. Tenant Acquisition and Screening:

Property managers are experts at finding and screening tenants. They can help you attract quality renters, reducing the risk of rent defaults, property damage, or legal issues. Thorough background checks, credit assessments, and rental history verifications are part of their tenant screening process.

2. Setting Competitive Rental Rates:

Property managers conduct market research to determine the optimal rental rates for your properties. They ensure you maximize your rental income while remaining competitive in the local market. This expertise can significantly impact your return on investment.

3. Handling Lease Agreements:

Lease agreements are legal documents that protect both landlords and tenants. Property managers ensure these agreements are comprehensive and comply with all local and state regulations. They also handle lease negotiations, renewals, and terminations.

4. Rent Collection and Financial Management:

Collecting rent on time is crucial for maintaining a steady income from your investments. Property managers take care of this task, sending out reminders, and handling late payments. They can also manage property-related finances, including paying bills and taxes.

5. Property Maintenance and Repairs:

Maintaining your property’s condition is essential for preserving its value. Property managers oversee regular maintenance and respond promptly to repair requests from tenants. This proactive approach ensures the property remains in excellent condition.

6. Legal Compliance:

Navigating the complex landscape of landlord-tenant laws and regulations can be challenging. Property managers stay up-to-date with these laws and ensure your property complies with all relevant regulations. This minimizes the risk of costly legal disputes.

7. Emergency Response:

Property managers are on-call to handle tenant emergencies, such as plumbing issues, electrical problems, or security concerns. Their prompt response not only keeps tenants satisfied but also prevents potential damage to your property.

8. Tenant Relations:

Maintaining positive relationships with tenants is crucial. Property managers act as intermediaries, addressing tenant concerns and ensuring their needs are met. This fosters a more harmonious renting experience.

9. Marketing and Advertising:

When a property becomes vacant, property managers handle marketing and advertising to attract new tenants swiftly. Their expertise in showcasing the property’s strengths can reduce vacancy periods.

10. Investment Strategy and Planning:

Experienced property managers can provide valuable insights into your real estate investment strategy. They can advise on property acquisition, expansion, and even exit strategies, helping you make informed decisions.

Professional property managers are invaluable partners in real estate investing. Their expertise in tenant acquisition, financial management, property maintenance, and legal compliance can make the difference between a successful and stressful investment experience. By entrusting your properties to skilled property managers, you can optimize your returns and enjoy the benefits of passive real estate investing.

Looking for Boise Property Management for your rental property? Give us a call today at 208-949-3083 or find out what your home will rent for with our FREE Rental Estimate.

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

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!

Merry Everything From RentWise Property Management!

December 12, 2022

From all of us at RentWise Property Management, we wish you the MERRIEST Christmas and HAPPIEST and Healthiest New Year!

2022 has been an exciting year! Another year in the books has blessed us with the opportunity to continue serving our investors, residents, and our tight-knit community! We are cherishing the holidays more than ever now.

The holiday season allows us to say ‘Thank You’ to our investors, residents, vendors, and friends. The truth is that we are thankful for you EVERY day. We couldn’t do it without your trust, dedication, and commitment. Each day we get to continue on the journey of being your choice for property management is the best day ever for us. RentWise Property Management started as a dream in 2009 and has continued to grow and thrive, thanks to your support!

Each holiday season RentWise Property Management supports a local organization. Giving back to our local community is very near and dear to our hearts. This year our team contributed over 2,500 personal care items to Oliver’s Gift– a local organization created in memory of Oliver Smith, who lost his life to mental illness in 2019. Oliver devoted his time, energy, and faith weekly to making care packages for the less fortunate. This year, Oliver’s Gift aimed to create 1,000 care packages to give to homeless people and veterans throughout the local community. ❤️

Our vision has always been to be the best possible version of what it means to be a property management company in our area and beyond! We want to spread our ethics, best business practices, and influence across the globe by continuing to learn and educate ourselves and others to be the best they can be! Thank you for being there for the past 13 years, growing with us, and sharing us with your friends and clients.

From the bottom of our hearts, we wish you all success, laughter, and health throughout the entire new year! We have big plans and are excited about what will come in 2023!