practices and rules before you move forward with opening up your property to renters. Hire a property management lawyer to get all the facts and to understand both your renters’ rights as well as your own. You’ll need to consider national, state, and local housing laws when renting out your home. Regularly check in with your attorney to ensure that a) you’re aware of all applicable Fair Housing laws to your area; and b) you’re in compliance. You’ll also need to check that you’re following the requirements of the law for Section 8, Social Security payments, etc. For example, some cities and counties require that any landlord accept any and all Section 8 applicants. In addition to all Fair Housing laws, you’ll need to familiarize yourself with the ADA, which protects people living with disabilities from discrimination in many different areas — housing included. There may be other laws particular to your area, so, again, do your research/homework and consult your attorney so you are covered! Again, your minimum qualification standards can protect you when it comes to Fair Housing complaints, but only if you’ve consistently used these standards for everyone.
ONGOING PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Once you’ve successfully landed your first tenant, it’s not over. In fact, it’s really just the beginning! Here are a few areas that you’ll need to cover:
Respond to tenant and neighbor complaints quickly.
If your tenant complains, address those complaints. If the complaints are legitimate, then deal with them and resolve them
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