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Property Management Company Columbia SC | Monitoring Your Property Legally

Author: MediaBeast
Categories: Property Management
Property Management Company Columbia SC

When your property is rented out by a long-term tenant, you might feel the need to check in on it periodically to make sure the condition is being maintained and no surprise damage will be found after that tenant moves out. You can drive by on the street at any time, of course, but that really isn’t going to show you much. Getting inside the property periodically is essential, but you need to do so in a legal fashion. A good property management company in Columbia, SC will be able to help with that task. 

Following the Rules

Although it is your property in the sense that you own it, the tenants that occupy the property while under a lease have certain rights that must be protected. That means you are now allowed to simply show up and walk into the property whenever you would like. If you’d like to do a walk-through to assess the condition of the home, you’ll need to provide at least 24 hours notice to your tenants. Of course, if you want to be a good landlord and maintain a good relationship with the renter, you’ll provide as much notice as possible and make sure this walk-through is not disruptive to their day-to-day life. With us acting as your property management company in Columbia, SC, you can have us deal with arranging this walk-through and making the proper notification in advance. 

Dealing with Issues

Beyond setting up a walk-through, another benefit of having a property management company in Columbia, SC is knowing what to do when issues do arise. What if you find something in the walk-through that is concerning? We’ll be there with you, and our team understands rental laws fully – we’ll be able to suggest a course of action and help you execute on whatever is necessary to protect your interests while staying on the right side of the law. 

Working with the right property management company can take a huge weight off of your shoulders. Scott Properties would be proud to serve in this role for you, so reach out today to learn more about our services. We hope to hear from you soon!

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Rent your Home Columbia | Rent your Home Faster with these Updates

Author: MediaBeast
Categories: Property Management,Property Management in Columbia SC,Property Management in Lexington SC,Residential Property Management in Lexington, SC,Scott Properties,Uncategorized

Rental homes are in hot demand, but developers are scrambling to build more housing to keep up with population growth in the Midlands. Investors in rental properties can find a lot of luck in attracting and retaining high-quality tenants by making updates that will have applicants clamoring to get a showing. 

 

Best Updates to Make To Rental Properties 

The best updates to make before you rent your home in Columbia are the fast and easy updates including:

  • Fresh coat of paint in the interior
  • Replacing carpet
  • Upgrading appliances
  • Refacing cabinets 
  • maxing/polishing non carpeted flooring
  • Replacing the tub surround 
  • Adding simple landscaping to the exterior 

These simple and quick updates to rental properties make a big impact during applicant tours because it helps the home look cleaner and brighter. However, investors who want to rent their home in Columbia and stay towards the above average end of the market rent can consider:

  • Replacing siding or fresh exterior painting 
  • Replacing laminate flooring with tile or hardwood
  • Replacing cabinets 
  • Remodeling the master bathroom
  • Creating outdoor space such as a deck, patio, or garden

 

In addition to making updates and renovations to increase the rent value on the home, investors should always stay on top of pest control, keeping landscaping up to date (including tree trimming and pruning), and more. Keeping rental properties in pristine condition can be difficult, especially once a new tenant moves in. Investors should ensure that their property management company includes mandates in the lease for proper interior and exterior care of the home, as well as biannual inspections of the home.

 

One of the worst things that can happen to an investor is a tenant not taking care of a property and previous updates and renovations being ruined. Working with property managers to provide oversight to your investments can help you yield a larger return, and increase the value of your property. 

 

If you need property management services in Columbia, call Scott Properties of the Midlands at 803-951-0702.

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Rent your Home Columbia | Top Amenities Renters Want

Author: MediaBeast
Categories: Property Management,Property Management Companies in Columbia SC,Property Management in Columbia SC,Uncategorized
109 Sweetoak

One of the best ways to make residual income is to rent your home in Columbia. However, the generation looking to rent single-family homes are younger millennials and generation Z who are now in their early to mid 20’s. These generations of tenants are looking for properties that are modern, spacious, and can be their safe haven to entertain and relax with friends and family. Homes that had owners for many years, or decades, are often in need of a lot of updates to increase the appeal. Luckily, we know just the top amenities renters are looking for in and around Columbia, SC. 

 

Top Amenities for Rental Properties 

  1. Outdoor Space- The weather is beautiful most of the year in the Midlands and renters are looking for space to entertain their friends and family both indoors and out. A patio or deck in the backyard, lots of space for a fire pit and chairs, and maybe even room for a swingset will help investors get top dollar for rent. 
  2. Energy Efficient Appliances- The younger generations are more eco-conscious than ever and if the appliances are more than 20 years old you should consider upgrading them before you rent your home in Columbia. Energy efficiency isn’t just good for the environment, but it will help lower the utility bills for the tenants.
  3. Ample Parking- Off street parking can be hard to find depending on where you are renting in Columbia and the surrounding areas. However, a driveway and garage can increase the value of the property and land your home on the higher end of the market rate. Everyone wants off-street parking if they can get it!
  4. Smart Home Features- The more a millennial or genZer can control with their phone, the better for them. Smart Home features such as digital thermostats, automatic lights, and even shades that go up and down with the tap of the screen will impress tenants and future buyers. 
  5. Lots of Storage- Minimalism is in, but not everyone wants to throw out every item that doesn’t bring them immediate joy. Millennials are especially into the streamlined look where they can keep most of their kitchen appliances, dishes, and food tucked away into pantries and cabinets. They also love large walk-in closets with built-in shelves and bookcases. 

 

These top amenities will help your property stay occupied and turn a profit in Columbia and all around the Midlands. Most of these amenities are easy and fast to complete without breaking the bank!

 

If you need property management services in Columbia, call Scott Properties of the Midlands at 803-951-0702.

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Property Management Company Columbia | Why the Midlands is the Place to Invest

Author: MediaBeast
Categories: Property Management,Property Management Services in Columbia SC,Uncategorized
109 Alston

Diving into investment properties is an exciting time but knowing where the best place to invest is can be tricky. South Carolina has a growing population, but the number of available properties in the big cities such as Midlands is not keeping pace with the number of tenants coming to the state. Many first time investors are finding more success and less competition for properties in communities like the midlands and Columbia. 

 

Benefits of Investing in the Midlands

Housing costs in Midlands are 127% more expensive than Columbia. This HUGE disparity makes investing in properties in the Midlands very attractive for first time investors. 

More than half of the residents in Columbia rent their homes and are happy to do so as rents have remained relatively affordable compared to Midlands. 

Columbia is a buyer’s market according to realtor.com and is one of the best places to find great property values with high returns on investment.

University of South Carolina along with business growth in Columbia keep a steady stream of people moving into the area. There will always be quality renters so your properties won’t remain vacant. 

A property management company in Columbia can help you manage properties no matter where you live or if you want to travel. 

 

Best Neighborhoods to Invest Around Columbia

Columbia offers a great urban-suburban environment, but there are many other neighborhoods perfect for single-families in the suburbs as well. 

Cayce is a small community where nearly 50% of the households are renters. The neighborhood is just a bit south of downtown Columbia and sits along the Congaree River. Homes in Cayce average 5 days on the market, so this community is hot for investors. 

West Columbia is another community where there are many renters. 45% of the households rent and homes are more affordable in West Columbia than other places in the metro area. 

Chapin has a lower population of renters but this tiny community with a population less than 2,000 is ranked as the second-best community to purchase a home in the Columbia area. Average rent is $1,200 and worth every penny, especially lakefront properties.

A property management company in Columbia can help investors decide which neighborhoods are the best for rental property profits. 

 

 

If you need property management services in Columbia, call Scott Properties of the Midlands at 803-951-0702.

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Property Management Company Columbia | Rental Trends to Look For in 2023

Author: MediaBeast
Categories: Property Management,Property Management in Columbia SC,Uncategorized

South Carolina home values have increased by nearly 27% in the last year and the trend will continue into 2023. The housing market is so strong because of high demand and limited supply of single family homes. Throw inflation in the mix which is causing contractors to spend more and more on building, and the biggest trend for 2023 will be rent increases. However, there are a few more trends a property management company in Columbia should consider to keep returns increasing. 

Trends in Rental Properties

  1. Cohabitating in Single-Family- More and more single young adults are finding themselves looking for single-family homes where they can cohabitate with friends to save money. Sometimes a property management company in Columbia can increase profits by charging rent per bedroom when there are multiple unrelated adults living in a home.
  2. Shorter Term Leases- The market is changing quickly and shorter term leases allow a property management company in Columbia to be flexible when it comes to terms such as rent. Generally landlords cannot change the price of rent until lease renewal time, with inflation rising as fast as it is, landlords need to be able to keep up with market trends.
  3. Summer Vacation Rental- One of the best ways to make higher profits on homes used for student housing in South Carolina is to rent the home for summer vacation rentals. These types of rental turn a profit fast, especially if the property is close to the beach. 

One of the best ways for investors to keep up with the trends in the ever-changing rental market is to use a property management company in Columbia. Property managers keep a close eye on market trends and rates, take care of all the day-to-day tasks associated with being a landlord, collect and process rent, and much more. Taking on these duties allows investors to focus on their business, while a manager focuses on the tenants. 

If you need property management services in Columbia, call Scott Properties of the Midlands at 803-951-0702.

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Rental Policies Essential to be in Your Lease | Property Management Companies in Columbia SC

Author: MediaBeast
Categories: Propert Manager,Property Management,Property Management Companies in Columbia SC

A lease is the most important and essential component to renting your single-family home. The lease is a legally binding document that outlines the rental amount, due dates, and obligations of the landlord and tenant. Having a lawyer or experienced property management companies in Columbia SC involved in creating your lease is always a good idea. Property managers are experts in leasing and can let you know the policies that are most essential to protect owners and the property. 

Most Important Lease Policies for Property Management Companies in Columbia SC

  • Fees- There are more charges that tenants are responsible for above and beyond rent; however, these fees must be outlined in the lease to be enforceable. Fees could include municipal garbage, bulk waste, or recycling fees, late fees, lease violation penalty fees, charges made to the deposit such as cleaning fees post move-out, pet fees, and more. 
  • Overnight Visitor Policies- Long term overnight visitors can quickly end up becoming roommates which can put your tenants over the occupancy limits in the lease. Too many people living in a house and not being on the lease is a problem property management companies in Columbia SC are familiar with and we always recommend having clear occupancy policies for visitors and tenants. 
  • Exterior Upkeep- Lawns, sidewalks, porches, patios, decks, gardens, garages, and other exterior areas of the property require upkeep from mowing and weed pulling to keeping these areas free from trash and debris. Outlining responsibilities of the landlord and the tenant in the lease for these areas is important to maintaining the curb appeal of the property. 
  • Renewal and Termination Policies- The last thing you want is for a tenant to move out unexpectedly and be stuck with unplanned costs to clean, market, and lease the property. Adding policies that outline how to properly terminate or renew a lease will protect your investment financially. Make sure to consider how far in advance tenants must renew or give notice of moving out, any early termination fees or late renewal fees, and what the move out procedures should be. 

These four policies are essential to have in each property lease; however, there are many other factors that are very important. Partnering with property management companies in Columbia SC is a great way to ensure your leases are legally binding, protect your property and investment, and increase your return on investment. 

If you’re ready to talk about your property management options, give Scott Properties a call at 803-951-0702.

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Battling the Top Reasons Why Tenants Want to Move Out | Property Management Companies in Columbia SC

Author: MediaBeast
Categories: Propert Manager,Property Management,Property Management Companies in Columbia SC

One of the most important tasks property management companies in Columbia SC do for their investor clients is making sure great tenants don’t leave. When tenants pay ontime, keep the property clean and cared for, and don’t have any complaints, the most dreadful thing that can happen is non renewal of their lease and moving out. The best tenants are super hard to come by, and sometimes there is no way to convince a renter not to move, including when their job changes or they have personal reasons to move. However, there are a lot of ways you can increase resident retention and make it more likely for tenants to stay in place longer. 

How to Overcome Tenant Move Out Requests 

There are a few common reasons why tenants might want to move that will allow you some flexibility in changing their minds:

  • The House is Too Small- If tenants are expanding their family by having a child or wanting to have roommates, the rental home might not fit their needs any longer. Property management companies in Columbia SC can simply offer a lease transfer when this is the case! Work with the tenants to lease another property by the same owner or company so you aren’t completely losing out on the revenue from those tenants. Pre Leasing an upcoming property, or even allowing tenants to break their current leases early when transferring in-house can be a win-win for everyone. 
  • We Don’t Like the Schools- If the tenants are wanting to have kids, or their kids are starting school, they may start looking for a new home in a different school district, or closer to their school of choice. When this happens the best option is to ask them to transfer into a rental property near the school they want and offer them options that allow them to keep renting from the same property management companies in Columbia SC. 
  • No Longer Affordable- One of the toughest objections to overcome from tenants is when they can no longer afford the rent. You shouldn’t lower your rent to accommodate your renters, however, you can help them to see the great value they have by staying in their home. Moving costs, paying a new deposit for rent and utilities, and the loss of certain amenities such as on-site laundry can end up costing a tenant more than if they had stayed in the home and renewed their lease. 

Property managers often have great sales skills that help to increase retention among the tenants that you want to renew again and again. Working with a property management company can streamline your business and help you see a larger return on investment. Call Scott Properties today to find out how we can help you. 

Contact Scott Properties at 803-951-0702.

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Property Management Companies in Columbia SC | Should Tenants Be Allowed Swimming Pools?

Author: Scott Wallace
Categories: Property Management
Property Management Companies in Columbia SC

One of the toughest decisions property management companies in Columbia SC must help owners make is whether to allow renters to set up swimming pools in the backyard. In South Carolina, some homeowners keep their pool going all year round and renters in single-family homes often want to enjoy their own private swimming pool as well. However, swimming pools can be a significant risk for property owners and there are several factors that you will need to consider with property management companies in Columbia SC.

Why You Should Let Tenants Have Swimming Pools

There are two reasons to let tenants have swimming pools—to make your property more attractive, and to charge more in rent. Depending on the type of renter you are targeting, swimming pools can be an effective draw for communities where you can increase rent for the luxury amenities. Swimming pools are hit and miss with families who might think the pool is a safety hazard; however, younger millennials and generation Z renters will love swimming pools with decks they can entertain on in the backyard and they will be willing to pay extra for it.

Why You Should Not Let Tenants Have Swimming Pools

The property management companies in Columbia SC will warn you that allowing tenants to have swimming pools can be a risk. Not only can swimming pools to a lot of damage to the yard, lawn, and property if they overflow or leak; they can put you at legal risk if an accidental drowning happens on the property. When the tenant moves out, they may not take down the pool ahead of time and the property maintenance crew will have to find a way to deal with it and restore the lawn beneath.

If you are considering allowing renters to have swimming pools, it is best to purchase rental properties that already have swimming pools installed. This way you know that the installation is done properly, the swimming pool will add value to the home rather than diminishing it, and professional pool maintenance can be called as needed.

If you need a property manager who can help you navigate the tough decisions, call Scott Properties at 803-951-0702

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Residential Property Management in Lexington SC | Why Landscaping Companies Are the Best Vendors for Rental Properties

Author: Scott Wallace
Categories: Property Management
Residential Property Management in Lexington SC

Residential property management in Lexington SC depends on vendors to help them effectively manage all the properties under their care. Often, property managers have several different vendors on speed dial including disaster clean up companies, roofers, housekeeping, maintenance men, and others but the vendor all property managers need to partner with is a landscaping company.

Why Property Managers Need Landscaping Companies

Residential property management in Lexington SC needs to have a reputation of beautifully maintained homes in order to be successful. Fresh cut lawns, landscaping, and curb appeal are important all the time, not just when the home is vacant. Landscaping companies can take the burden of outdoors maintenance off the shoulders of your regular maintenance employees and free them up to do indoor repairs and moveouts.

Landscaping companies have commercial grade equipment that makes lawncare easy and fast. Residential property management in Lexington SC becomes more efficient than ever when you can have all outdoor maintenance completed on a schedule and handled by a professional landscaping company you can trust. Contracting with landscapers is one of the best things that property managers who are managing multiple properties can do to ensure all homes are in tip-top shape and are stand outs in the community.

Tenants also appreciate when property managers make sure yards and landscaping are properly cared for. Keeping your property lush, beautiful, and maintained on the inside and outside is the responsibility of the person managing the property, but no one can do it all by themselves.

Landscaping companies will often give residential property management in Lexington SC discounts or deals on their services when bundled together for multiple properties. This helps keep costs lower and profits high for the investor who will appreciate your diligence in ensuring the property has a great return on investment.

If you need a property manager who can ensure your lawn and yard stay immaculate, call Scott Properties at 803-951-0702.

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Property Manager | Why A Property Manager Should Accept Online Rent Payments (SCOTT PROPERTIES)

Author: MediaBeast
Categories: Property Management,property manager,Scott Properties

Property Manager | Why A Property Manager Should Accept Online Rent Payments

Property Manager | Tenants have hundreds of excuses for why they can’t pay rent or can only make a partial payment. When you only accept cash, check, or money order for rent payments tenants find it easy to try to haggle their way into an extension on rent. When you accept online rent payments from tenants, they start to run out of excuses for why they can’t pay rent on time. There are certain excuses that online portals help to squash.

1. Money Related Excuses- Tenants will tell you dozens of different stories about why they didn’t have the money for rent. From other bills being too high to a child or family member falling ill, or the government being late on payments, a tenant that doesn’t have the money will want you to empathize. Online portals help tenants to manage their money better because they can make small payments throughout the month to try to get ahead after their rent is paid and they can track their rent through their online account.

2. Transportation-Related Excuses- The check got lost in the mail. The money order got wet in the mailbox. My car broke down, and I couldn’t make it into the office. It’s snowing outside, and the roads are bad. Tenants who rely on someone physically taking their rent payment to another location can always use transportation as an excuse. Online rent payments make it easy for tenants to pay from the comfort of their home or even from their phone while on the go.

3. Confusion on Due Dates- Some tenants will tell a property manager that the reason they are late on rent is that they were confused on the due dates, rent amount, or any other fees that they owe. This is a common excuse for new tenants especially. Online rental portals can send reminders to tenants about when rent is due and how much the tenant owes. Paying rent online and having a tenant account eliminates confusion on the details of rent.

If you are ready to take your rental property business to a new level with a property manager that can manage rentals contact Scott Properties.

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