One of the most uncomfortable things for a rental property owner to do is raise the rent on their tenants. However, everyone who works in property management in Lexington SC has had to increase the rent and it’s never a fun time. We have been able to come up with some best practices around when the best time to raise the rent is that will minimize the tension between property management and tenants.
- When It’s Time to Renew: You can only raise the rent when it is time to renew and sign a new contract. The property management in Lexington SC is just as beholden to the rent as tenants are and cannot charge any more than what is outlined in the lease.
- When Property Value Goes Up: Most landlords do not raise rent annually unless the market rent has increased, or the property value has gone up. The rental home may increase in value as properties are reassessed, upgrades and enhancements are made, or the neighborhood because more desirable.
- When You Aren’t Charging Enough: Some people who are new to property management in Lexington SC think they should charge below market value in rent just to undercut the other owners and try to get more tenants coming to them first. This is a bad practice because you are costing the property owner money and reputation when it comes to the worth of their rental properties.
How To Tell A Tenant Rent is Going Up
You should notify tenants within 60-90 days of their lease renewal that rent will be increasing. Most landlords choose to send a letter and/or email to tenants to remind them of their lease renewal deadline. Also included will often be the details on rent increases or any other new policies or lease changes tenants can expect. Make sure to always stay to the facts, remain calm, and keep communication with your tenants open and honest when it comes to rent increases and other changes in the lease.
If you’re looking for property management in Lexington SC, call Scott Properties at 803-951-0702.
