Belong looked at which states have recorded the biggest rent growth in the first half of 2023 using data from Apartment List.

States that have seen the largest rent growth so far in 2023

After a post-pandemic surge, rental rate increases are slowing down, growing just 2.6% in the first seven months of 2023.

In the last five years, renters have felt the pressure on their budgets, but most of the pain has come since the pandemic. Although average rent prices fell for a few months at the onset of the pandemic as people left major cities, demand rebounded as the price of homes soared, putting homeownership out of reach for many. According to Apartment List, the overall median rent in the U.S. has risen 22.4% to $1,372 since March 2020.

Now that growth is tapering off, partly due to the completion of apartments that underwent construction during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through 2024, about 1 million multifamily rental units should hit the market, Apartment List's chief economist Igor Popov told The Washington Post, which may help meet some of the demand.

However, rents are still rising and generally remain high, creating affordability issues in many parts of the country, as inflation and the end of pandemic eviction protections continue to drag on renters' budgets.

Belong looked at which states have recorded the biggest rent growth in the first half of 2023 using data from Apartment List. The data represents the overall average monthly rent in these states from January to June 2023, compared to the average 2022 rent. Data was not available for Alaska, Maine, or Vermont.

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Even though there's plenty of demand for rentals in cities like Wichita, a lack of new development continues to put pressure on the market. That's partly due to high construction costs, which developers can't easily recoup through rents, as rents in the city are still relatively low, per KWCH.

Wichita's not the only city with high demand—Overland Park, a suburb of Kansas City, is one of the most popular rental markets in the country, according to a July 2023 RentCafe analysis, due to its affordability within the metro area.

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Although statewide rents are still on the rise, prices in Northwest Arkansas have been increasing faster than the rest of the state. According to Axios, rents in this region have risen 27% since 2001.

Meanwhile, vacancy rates in the region's key towns of Rogers, Bentonville, Springdale, and Fayetteville are below 3%, which essentially means full occupancy—since some apartments will need to be offline for repairs, painting, or cleaning at any given time.

In Little Rock, in the central part of the state, a three-decade focus on commercial development has contributed to a lack of residential rental options, KATV reports. This has caused an increase in rental prices across the city.




In Iowa, both single-family homes and apartment rentals have experienced rate increases. In Des Moines, that makes for a tighter rental market for younger workers coming into the job market and people who have relocated from larger, more expensive cities, WHO-13 reports.

A report by the National Low Income Housing Coalition and Prosperity Indiana notes that to keep housing costs at no more than 30% of income—a figure financial experts use to determine how much someone should spend on housing and still have enough money to cover their other expenses—renters must earn an average of $19 an hour.

But renters' actual average wage is just $17.86 an hour. Renters in Indianapolis are feeling the squeeze, but more units coming on the market aren't causing rents to go down. New construction is commanding higher prices, and investors are buying older apartment complexes, renovating them, and raising the rents, Indiana University's Center for Real Estate Studies' Sara Coers told WRTV.

More Mississippians are opting to rent, as increases in home prices and interest rates have put homeownership out of reach for many. That's created more demand for rental units, WXXV reports.

Meanwhile, rental property owners are also facing higher costs, so they've increased rents to get a return on their investment. Demand for rentals along the Gulf Coast is so intense landlords are raising rents by hundreds of dollars, according to WLOX.

College towns are also not immune to higher prices, the Waller, Weeks and Johnson Rental Index notes. Renters are paying 20% more in Oxford, home to the University of Mississippi, because the city doesn't have enough inventory to meet demand.

While demand is a factor in rental increases, in Wisconsin, this demand is driven by people who want to live on their own, PBS Wisconsin reports. According to the state's Demographic Services Center, the average household size has dropped from 3.224 people in 1970 to 2.353 people in 2022, even though the population has grown by 1.53 million people during that same time.

Costs for building owners have also skyrocketed, who have to manage higher prices for financing, maintenance, repair, and even cleaning costs, which require them to raise rents to cover their investment.

Between 2018 and 2022, 294,000 people left the Chicago metro area, in part due to housing affordability, according to ABC News. However, the Chicago Tribune notes that a lack of rental housing keeps prices high and sparks bidding wars for apartments in popular neighborhoods.

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Unlock Hassle-Free Homeownership: How Rental Management Companies Work

In the ever-evolving world of real estate, owning rental properties can be a lucrative venture, offering a consistent stream of income and potential long-term financial growth. However, the intricate responsibilities associated with property management can quickly become overwhelming for homeowners. This is where rental management companies step in, providing their expertise and services to help rental homeowners navigate the complexities of property management. In this in-depth guide, we will explore the inner workings of rental management companies, shedding light on their role, benefits, and how they can transform your property investment experience.

A rental management company acts as a professional intermediary between property owners and tenants. These companies specialize in handling various aspects of property management, from marketing and tenant screening to rent collection and maintenance. By outsourcing these tasks to experts, rental homeowners can reclaim their time, reduce stress, and maximize returns on their investments.

2. What is the Role of Rental Management Companies?

Rental management companies play a multifaceted role to ensure a seamless property management process. Their primary function is to bridge the communication gap between homeowners and tenants, facilitating effective communication and ensuring a positive rental experience for both parties. Key responsibilities of rental management companies include:

Tenant Acquisition and Screening: Employing strategic marketing tactics to attract potential tenants and conducting rigorous screening to find the most suitable candidates for the property.


Property Marketing and Advertising: Utilizing diverse marketing channels to promote vacant properties, ensuring broad exposure to potential tenants.


Lease Agreements and Documentation: Crafting and executing legally sound lease agreements that outline terms and responsibilities for both parties.


Maintenance and Repairs: Coordinating property maintenance and repairs to ensure the property remains well-maintained and tenant concerns are addressed promptly.


Rent Collection and Financial Management: Managing rent collection, financial record-keeping, and disbursing payments to homeowners.


Tenant Relations and Conflict Resolution: Acting as intermediaries in tenant-owner interactions and professionally handling conflict resolution.

With Belong you can enjoy additional perks such as guaranteed rent, the ability to split payments, 24/7 support, and insurance all in one place! 

3. Key Benefits of Hiring a Rental Management Company 

Collaborating with a rental management company offers a host of advantages for rental homeowners:

Time Efficiency: Delegating day-to-day management tasks to experts enables homeowners to focus on personal and professional commitments.

Tenant Quality: Utilizing stringent tenant screening processes helps secure reliable and responsible tenants for your property.

Property Maintenance: Ensuring regular property maintenance and timely repairs enhances property value over time.

Legal Compliance: Staying informed about local and state rental laws ensures your property adheres to all necessary regulations.

Rent Collection Efficiency: Managing rent collection and financial operations guarantees a consistent and timely flow of income.

4. How Rental Management Companies Find Tenants 

The process of tenant acquisition is fundamental to successful property management. Rental management companies implement a strategic approach to tenant acquisition:

Property Advertising: Crafting compelling property listings and deploying targeted advertising strategies to reach a broader audience of potential tenants.


Tenant Screening: Conducting rigorous tenant screening, including background checks, credit history reviews, and rental references, ensures the selection of responsible and trustworthy tenants.


Tenant Matching: Matching tenants with suitable properties based on preferences ensures a harmonious and mutually beneficial rental arrangement.

Property maintenance is a cornerstone of preserving the value of your investment and ensuring tenant satisfaction:

Regular Inspections: Regular inspections are conducted by rental management companies to identify maintenance needs and address them promptly.


Timely Repairs: Coordinating repairs and maintenance tasks efficiently prevents minor issues from escalating into significant problems.


Emergency Response: Rental management companies have protocols in place to handle emergencies and minimize disruptions effectively.

6. Rent Collection and Financial Management 

Effective financial management is essential for the success of your rental property:

Rent Collection: Streamlining rent collection through various payment options ensures consistent and timely payments from tenants.


Financial Reporting: Providing detailed financial reports offers homeowners insights into income, expenses, and overall financial performance.


Expense Tracking: Maintaining accurate records of property-related expenses allows homeowners to monitor investment profitability.

Navigating the legal aspects of property management is a complex task:

Lease Agreement: Crafting comprehensive lease agreements that outline tenant responsibilities, rent terms, and legal obligations is a crucial responsibility of rental management companies.


Compliance: Staying updated with local and state rental laws ensures your property complies with all relevant regulations.


Eviction Procedures: In unfortunate situations, rental management companies manage eviction procedures in a legally compliant manner.

Modern technology plays a pivotal role in property management:

Online Portals: Offering online portals for homeowners and tenants facilitates transparent communication and easy access to crucial information.


Transparency: Leveraging technology enables homeowners to track property performance, financial reports, and maintenance updates, promoting transparency and accountability.

9. Comparing Traditional vs. Modern Rental Management 

The evolution of property management has led to a shift from traditional to modern approaches:

Traditional Management: Historically, property management involved limited services, often requiring homeowners to handle most tasks themselves.


Modern Management: Disruptor rental management companies offer comprehensive and technology-driven solutions, elevating property management to a new level of efficiency and effectiveness.

10. Choosing the Right Rental Management Company 

Selecting the appropriate rental management company is a critical decision:

Experience and Reputation: Opt for companies with a proven track record and positive reviews from both homeowners and tenants.


Services Offered: Evaluate the range of services offered and ensure they align with your property management needs.


Communication: Effective and transparent communication is paramount. Choose a company that values open and timely interactions.


Technology Integration: Consider companies that leverage technology to enhance property management processes.


Rental management companies have emerged as indispensable allies for rental homeowners seeking to optimize their property investments. Their comprehensive role, encompassing tenant acquisition, property maintenance, financial management, legal expertise, and technological innovation, provides a holistic solution to the challenges of property ownership.

By entrusting the complexities of property management to experts, rental homeowners can savor the benefits of passive income without the associated stress. Embrace the advantages of modern property management and embark on a journey of seamless and profitable property ownership with Belong PRO. Belong is simplifying the rental experience and helping more homeowners reach their financial goals through real estate. Visit our homeowner's page to find out more about services in places like Seattle, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Austin, Oakland, Miami, and many more.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice. Always consult with qualified experts before making decisions related to property management or investment.

Discover the comprehensive role of rental management companies in simplifying property ownership. Explore tenant acquisition, property maintenance, legal expertise, and more.

Your step-by-step guide to how rental management works

Tech-Enabled Property Management is here, but is it really innovative? Discover 5 ways tech is shaping property management and why Belong's innovation is unique

5 Ways Tech is Transforming the Rental Experience and Property Management

When it comes to innovation, property management is not what you would call ‘ahead of the curve’. When our lives and work began to shift online, so did rental listings. And that was the beginning and end of technological advancements for years.

It was taking what already existed and putting it on a browser or app. Nothing was addressing the issues that have been plaguing homeowners and their residents for years. 

But after lagging behind, technology is finally finding its place to revolutionize how rental homes are managed. Because the real opportunity that modern tech presents is the chance to completely rewrite the rental experience. 

That’s exactly what Belong is doing. We’re not just bringing you tech-enabled property management. The mission of Belong is to create authentic belonging experiences, empowering residents to become homeowners and homeowners to become financially free. 

To explain how that works, let’s take a look at five ways the property management industry is innovating through technology. And how Belong is taking that further to create better experiences for both homeowners and their residents. 

Apps for rent collection are handy — guaranteed rent in your pocket every month is better



Tenant communication apps aren’t more effective than a phone call unless someone can respond 24/7



Access to more data and analytics is making pricing rental homes more effective



Video can extend the reach of your online listing to attract more applications 

5 ways technology is changing property management

In 2023, there’s no shortage of apps for rent collection. These apps charge either a subscription or transaction fee, but simplify the process of collecting rent. 

For homeowners, rent collection apps make it easier to track payments and document income for tax purposes. 

For residents, rent collection apps offer more options and flexibility. Some will also report on-time payments to credit reporting agencies to help build a credit rating (though many charge more for this).

How Belong is rewriting the rent collection experience:

Belong’s app is super convenient for rent collection, but it’s so much more than that. Belong will also guarantee rent for homeowners, giving you predictable income that is paid like clockwork. Residents can choose the payment frequency that works best for them, without disrupting your cash flow. 

Not only will Belong report on-time payments to credit reporting agencies for residents, we offer extra perks too. Residents will soon be able to earn rewards and even build credit towards their first home deposit, simply by paying rent on time. 

For homeowners, we make cash flow management easier with the option to advance your income or split unexpected costs (such as repairs or emergency maintenance) over the term of your lease. It’s your income, paid on your terms. 

Discover Belong PRO: See why thousands of US homeowners are ditching outdated Property Management in San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles, Tampa, Jacksonville, Concord, Berkeley, Orlando and more.

What marvelous innovation has technology brought to property management to connect with tenants? Well, thanks to the introduction of ‘tenant portals’, most residents can log their maintenance issues online or in an app now. This makes it easier to find a history of communication, but it doesn’t mean that issues will be resolved any faster. These apps and portals are designed to notify property managers of an issue, which they will get during business hours. 24/7 communication is reserved for emergencies only, if available at all. 

Some larger companies are looking at things like AI and chatbots to answer common questions quickly. But unless ChatGPT learns how to arrange a contractor to fix that weekend plumbing emergency, its usefulness will be limited. 

How Belong is rewriting the tenant communication experience:

Belong has a dedicated concierge service, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on the Belong app. Not chatbots, no leaving a message after the beep. Real people are available to speak to both homeowners and their residents, which means that you can manage your home during the hours that suit you. If residents have a question after work, they can get a fast and personalized response. 

Traditionally, property managers won’t speak to tenants after hours which makes communication frustrating and inconvenient. By attending to resident needs quickly, Belong has a proud history of happier residents and longer tenancies. More than 73% of Belong residents renew their 1-year lease, minimizing disruption to cash flow for our homeowners. 

Learn More: Discover Belong PRO, the best alternative to Property Management in Seattle, Redmond, Oakland, and many more cities across California, Florida and Washington State.

3. Online dispute resolution for lease violations

When someone violates their lease or stops paying rent, the process goes to the courts. This can be a lengthy and costly process for homeowners. While evicting someone is never a nice experience, technology is improving how it’s managed. 

The state of California for example has the Online Dispute Resolution (ODR) process, which is an alternative to having to go to court. This service can provide online guided negotiation and mediation. If an agreement is reached, all necessary forms can be submitted online, avoiding a trial.  

How Belong is providing better eviction support:

The best way to avoid eviction is finding the right tenants. This is why Belong goes the extra mile to find people who will love your home like you do. We start by integrating with the best online listings to attract more applications. Then we use a clever mix of human and digital vetting tools to find people who will love your home long-term.

We also know that so-called “eviction protection” packages in the property management industry are another way to hide fees. You pay more for property management services with eviction help included, only to find out that you’re covered for basic filing fees only.

If you choose to partner with Belong PRO, you’ll have real peace of mind that your eviction process is supported. If Belong ever needs to evict a resident that we have chosen (not existing leases or tenants), Belong will cover legal costs up to $15,000. 

Learn More: How to manage the eviction process in California, Washington state, and Florida. 

With everything moving online, it’s become a lot easier to price rent for a home. With access to better data and more resources, researching comps in your local area is faster than it used to be. With a few clicks you can find past and present listings — even look inside neighboring rentals to get an idea of what people are paying. 

How Belong is optimizing rental price based on real demand:

Comps only tell part of the story. Listings only tell you what a homeowner is hoping to get for their home — not what people are actually paying. 

Belong doesn’t rely on comps alone to price homes on our Belong PRO network. We use clever algorithms and real-time demand to find the right price based on what your home offers, the amenities people want, the season, and how many people are active in your market. 

Read More: How to price a rental home in LA, San Diego, San Francisco and Miami. 

Discover The High-Tech (But Human) Property Management Alternative

The landlord-tenant relationship doesn't need to be frosty, with these 6 simple tips for landlords to improve tenant communication and make them feel at home.

Good Tenant-Landlord Relationships: 6 Tips for Self-Managing Homeowners

Historically, tenants and landlords have a frosty relationship. So frosty that Belong prefers not to use the terms at all (we like the friendlier ‘homeowners and residents’) as we rewrite the rental experience. 

But it’s not always this way. Renting out a home provides an incredibly vital service to the community and just as there are great long-term residents, there are also fantastic and helpful homeowners. You may really enjoy renting out your home and look at rental management as a hobby or profitable side hustle. 

So for those who are going it alone and self-managing a rental home, what can you do to improve your landlord-tenant relationship? To keep your home (and cash flow!) running smoothly and encourage great residents to stick around long term?

Here are 6 easy tips that can make your tenants feel more at home (and less likely to leave at the end of their lease). 

1. Create a welcome pack for new residents

When self-managing a rental home, it’s a great idea to send a welcome pack for your home with the signed lease. After all, you want them to treat it as their own and feel comfortable in their new space. Think of it like a compendium that a hotel room has, helping you get up to speed with standard procedures and the local area. 

A welcome pack can include any information that new residents should be aware of. This could include: 

You could even include some helpful personal touches, like school districts and the best coffee shops or dog parks in your neighborhood. 

Learn More: Discover Belong PRO, the best alternative to Property Management in Seattle, Redmond, Oakland, and many more cities across California, Florida and Washington State.  

2. Remove the need to chase them for rent

One of the most uncomfortable conversations between landlords and tenants is about overdue rent. Asking for rent doesn’t make you the bad guy, but it can still feel unpleasant when rent goes unpaid or tenants are struggling financially. Soon your tenants may start dodging your calls and before you know it, the relationship has soured despite best intentions. Or worse, you need to start eviction proceedings. 

This is why guaranteed rent is Belong’s most popular product. It’s proven and beloved by over 2,000 Belong PRO homeowners who now get paid passive income like clockwork, regardless of when their residents pay rent. 

Read More: How Guaranteed Rent is Changing Property Management Forever

Showing your home some love is a great way to make sure your tenants do too. Be sure to create a budget for regular home maintenance to ensure you can attend to resident concerns and home repairs as soon as they arise. 

It’s also a good idea to invest in functional features of your home that can approve the home’s appreciation long-term while also making the house more comfortable to live in. So if a resident complains about a moldy shower curtain, you should consider investing in a screen that can be cleaned, rather than replacing it with another cheap shower curtain. If the garden is dying, look at installing a reticulation system to keep it watered all year round. 

Read More: Why Ignoring Rental Home Maintenance Could Cost You More Than Repairs

Great communication with tenants is essential to a good relationship. That means not springing inspections on them at a moment's notice, respecting privacy, and keeping communication civil.

The best advice is to be professional with all communication, but it’s also ok to be friendly too. Ideally you want to achieve a relationship where you are approachable. It’s better that a resident can come to you with concerns, such as if rent may be late or something needs repairs, than letting it get to a point where you need to evict them. While we don’t suggest you start bombarding them with emojis or ‘HEY GURL!” intros, it is ok to be friendly and, well, human when you email them!  

Learn More: Belong PRO can handle all communications with 24/7 concierge services available for both you and your residents. See why thousands of US homeowners are ditching outdated Property Management in San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles, Tampa, Jacksonville, Concord, Berkeley, Orlando and more.

Artwork is a great way to personalize a space, helping your tenants to fall in love with your home. But as the homeowner, you don’t want to be dealing with lots of damage when the pictures come off. As part of your welcome pack or communication, you could suggest some no-damage solutions like the ones in this article for hanging art in a rental property. 

And if your tenants ask to paint a room or two? Work with them on a color scheme and cost that you can both be happy with. This could improve the ROI of your rental home, while also helping residents to make themselves at home. 

Another way to keep your residents comfortable in your home (and getting the bills paid on time) is to look at the sustainability and efficiency of the house. If your rental home is uncomfortably cold all winter and stuffy all summer, there’s a good chance your home has a high carbon footprint and isn’t appealing to stay long-term. 

Thankfully there are plenty of cost-effective ways that you can make your rental home more sustainable, making a great impression on your residents and reducing their emissions. 

Read More: 7 Cost-Effective Ways To Make Your Rental Home Sustainable in 2023

Belong is simplifying the rental experience across the US and helping more homeowners reach their financial goals on their own terms. For people who want a completely hassle-free home management experience with guaranteed rent and 24/7 concierge service, check out Belong PRO.

If you're looking to improve your landlord-tenant relationships, check out 6 easy tips to make your tenants feel more at home and want to renew their lease.

Is Hiring a Property Manager for a Single Rental Property Worth It?

As a rental homeowner, you may find yourself questioning whether hiring a property manager for your single rental property is worth the investment. In this article, we will explore the benefits of enlisting the services of a property manager. If you’re a rental homeowner, this content will provide insights into the reasons why having the right professional help can be the right move for you. From minimizing headaches to maximizing profits, we will discuss how a property manager can help you optimize your single-rental property investment.

Running a rental property, even a single one, requires substantial time and effort. By hiring professionals, you can delegate various responsibilities, such as advertising vacancies, screening tenants, drafting leases, and overseeing maintenance. This not only saves you time but also ensures that these tasks are handled efficiently and professionally. With a property manager taking care of the day-to-day management, you can focus on other aspects of your life. 

One of the notable advantages of working with a property manager is their knowledge and understanding of the local rental market. Property managers stay updated on rental trends, market rates, and property demands in your area. Leveraging this expertise, they can help you set competitive rental prices, attract quality tenants, and keep your property occupied. This ultimately optimizes your rental income and helps you achieve the best possible return on your investment.

Finding reliable tenants is vital for the success of your rental property. Property managers have robust tenant screening processes in place, including background checks, credit history analysis, and verification of references. Their experience in evaluating prospective tenants greatly reduces the risk of getting involved with problematic renters. Additionally, property managers handle tenant communications, resolve conflicts, and ensure rent payments are collected promptly. By entrusting these responsibilities to a property manager, you can maintain good tenant relations and avoid potential issues.

Property maintenance and repairs can be a significant responsibility for rental homeowners. With a property manager, you have a dedicated professional who arranges and oversees regular property maintenance, responds to tenant requests, and manages repairs when needed. Property managers often have a network of reliable contractors and vendors, ensuring that repairs are done promptly and at a reasonable cost. By entrusting these tasks to a property manager, you can ensure that your property is well-maintained, which can enhance tenant satisfaction and reduce costly emergency repairs.

Navigating the legal aspects of renting can be complex and time-consuming, especially if you are not familiar with the applicable regulations. Property managers have extensive knowledge of landlord-tenant laws and keep up to date with changes that may impact you as a rental homeowner. They ensure that your rental property is in compliance with all relevant laws, including lease agreements, safety standards, and eviction procedures. By having a property manager handle these legal matters, you can minimize the risk of legal disputes, penalties, and potential liabilities.

While the decision to hire a property manager for a single rental property involves a financial investment, the benefits far outweigh the costs. Property managers provide essential services that save you time, minimize stress, and maximize the profitability of your rental home. By leveraging their expertise, efficiency, and industry connections, you can enjoy a hassle-free rental experience while achieving optimal returns. Consider the advantages discussed in this article and make an informed decision that ensures the success of your single rental property investment.

At Belong, we've got your back with a bunch of end-end management solutions that work like a charm, all wrapped up with some seriously cool technology. Jump on board with these strategies and partner with us to position yourself as a trusted and professional rental homeowner in today's competitive real estate landscape. 

We know how much you care about your place, and we do too. That's why Belong PRO is your ultimate choice for taking care of your precious rental home from start to finish. We’re redefining the future of property management from Seattle to Oakland, Redmond to Los Angeles, Tampa to San Diego, and more!

Discover the advantages of enlisting a property manager for your single rental property. From time savings to expert tenant screening, learn how property management can optimize your investment. Make an informed decision for hassle-free rental success.

Explore how to maximize your rental income as a homeowner on your single property

Explore the essential tips and strategies for efficient property management, designed to boost rental income and create a seamless experience for rental homeowners.

What are the Best Practices in Property Management for Rental Homeowners

Managing rental properties efficiently is a crucial aspect of running a successful real estate investment. As a rental homeowner, adopting the best practices in property management can help you optimize your rental income, streamline operations, and enhance the overall tenant experience.

In this article, we will explore essential tips and strategies that will empower you to navigate the rental market with confidence. 

At Belong we understand the challenges faced by rental homeowners, and we're dedicated to providing innovative solutions that empower you to navigate the rental market with confidence.

One of the primary responsibilities of a property manager is to select reliable tenants. A thorough screening process can minimize the risk of renting to individuals with a history of late payments, property damage, or other problematic behaviors. A comprehensive screening should include background checks, credit checks, employment verification, and landlord references. Leveraging technology and online tools can streamline this process, making it more efficient and accurate. 

Establishing a streamlined rent collection system is crucial for maintaining a steady cash flow. Offering multiple payment options, such as online portals or electronic transfers, can make it convenient for tenants to pay their rent on time. Additionally, clearly communicating and enforcing late penalty fees are effective ways to encourage prompt payment and deter late payments.

Performing regular property inspections is a proactive approach to maintaining the integrity of your property and identifying potential issues before they escalate. Create a schedule for inspections and communicate the plan to your tenants in advance. During inspections, check for any necessary repairs, safety hazards, or breaches of the lease terms. Documenting these inspections with photos can act as a reference for future documentation.

4. Provide Efficient Maintenance and Repairs

Timely maintenance and repairs are essential to keep your property in excellent condition and ensure tenant satisfaction. Devising a maintenance plan that prioritizes urgent repairs and addresses routine tasks can help you stay on top of property upkeep. Build relationships with reliable contractors to ensure swift responses and high-quality workmanship.

Establishing clear and open lines of communication with your tenants is vital for addressing concerns, answering questions, and building trust. Encourage tenants to report maintenance issues promptly and provide various channels for communication, such as phone, email, or an online portal. Regularly communicate lease renewals, policy updates, or any changes that may affect the tenant's stay.

The advent of technology has revolutionized property management, making it easier and more efficient. Utilize property management software to streamline administrative tasks, such as accounting, lease management, and tenant communication. Automating processes frees up time for strategic decision-making and allows for better organization of documents and information.

Many homeowners hope to make sure their beloved house is well cared for. With Belong PRO, you’ll never have to worry about bad residents, late rent, cost blowouts, or 2 am phone calls ever again. Enjoy hassle-free online management of your home along with the perks of an advanced rental management app for both homeowners and residents. 

Complying with local, state, and federal housing laws is critical to avoid legal issues and protect yourself as a rental homeowner. Stay updated with the latest regulations, such as fair housing laws, building codes, and tenant rights. Partnering with legal professionals or joining local landlord associations can provide valuable resources and guidance to navigate these complexities. 

Creating a positive tenant experience goes a long way in attracting and retaining quality tenants. Offering amenities such as well-maintained common areas, proper lighting, landscaping, and efficient security measures enhances the overall appeal of your property. Respond to tenant requests promptly, address concerns, and foster a sense of community, creating a stress-free living environment.

By adhering to these best practices in property management, rental homeowners can optimize their rental income, attract reliable tenants, and build a thriving real estate investment portfolio. 

At Belong, we strive to support rental homeowners by offering a comprehensive range of property management services, coupled with cutting-edge technology that simplifies the entire process. Embrace these strategies and partner with Belong to position yourself as a trusted and professional rental homeowner in today's competitive real estate landscape. 

To learn more about how Belong PRO is simplifying the rental experience, visit our homeowner's page or visit one of our local pages to learn more:

Disclaimer: Belong thinks the word landlord is outdated and prefers 'homeowners'. But in this article we need to make an important distinction between owner-occupied homes and landlords with tenant-occupied homes or vacation rentals, so we have to use the words landlord and tenant a little more than we'd like. This article provides a guide on the types of insurance available and approximate costs but should not be considered financial advice. Please read all insurance policy guides to ensure you have something that suits your personal home and situation. 

Discover the best practices in property management to optimize rental income and enhance tenant experience. Learn more at belonghome.com

Best Practices in Property Management for Rental Homeowners | belonghome.com

Can You Hire a Property Manager for a Home You Live In?

When it comes to managing rental properties, many homeowners rely on the services of a property manager to handle the day-to-day operations. But what if you're a homeowner who also happens to be living in the property you want managed? Can you still hire a property manager?

The answer is yes, and in fact, there are several reasons why you might want to consider doing so. 

A big part of what Belong focuses on is providing homeowners with a hassle-free experience along with guaranteed rent and 24/7 support so homeowners can focus on living their lives while knowing their most important asset is properly taken care of even if they’re living in it. 

1. Benefits for Busy Professionals and Homeowners with Limited Time

First and foremost, hiring a property manager for your home can help alleviate the stress and responsibilities that come with managing a property. Whether you're a busy professional or simply prefer to have someone else take care of the various tasks involved, such as finding tenants, collecting rent, and handling maintenance requests, a property manager can handle it all for you. This can be especially beneficial if you have limited time or are frequently away from home due to work or personal commitments.

2. Expertise and Knowledge in Property Management

Furthermore, a professional property manager brings expertise and knowledge to the table that can be invaluable in ensuring your home is well-maintained and managed. They stay up to date with local rental laws, regulations, and market trends, allowing them to effectively navigate any challenges that may arise. Additionally, property managers often have a network of trusted contractors, making it easier to address maintenance and repair needs promptly and efficiently. By hiring a property manager, you can benefit from their experience and industry-specific knowledge, giving you peace of mind knowing that your property is being managed professionally.

Another advantage of having a property manager for your home is that they act as a buffer between you and your tenants. This can be particularly beneficial if you value your privacy or simply prefer not to deal directly with tenant-related issues. The property manager will be the point of contact for all tenant communications, including inquiries, complaints, and repair requests. By having a property manager handle these matters, you can maintain your privacy while ensuring that all necessary tasks are taken care of in a timely manner.

4. Minimizing Vacancies and Costly Disputes or Repairs

In addition, hiring a property manager can actually save you money in the long run. While you will have to pay a management fee, a professional property manager knows how to effectively market your property, ensure timely rent payments, and enforce lease agreements. This can ultimately help to minimize vacancies and reduce the likelihood of costly tenant disputes or repairs. Property managers also have access to resources and tools that can help optimize your property's rental income. They can conduct market analyses to determine the most competitive rental rates, ensuring you're maximizing your return on investment.

5. Peace of Mind and Professional Management

Lastly, having a property manager for your home can provide you with peace of mind. Knowing that your property is being well-managed and that any issues will be promptly addressed can help you focus on other aspects of your life without the added stress of property management. Whether you're a homeowner who prefers a hands-off approach or simply wants to ensure that your property and tenants are well taken care of, a property manager can provide you with the security and peace of mind you desire.

While it may not be a common practice, hiring a property manager for a home you live in can provide numerous benefits. From alleviating the stress and responsibilities of property management to ensuring your property is well-maintained and compliant with regulations, a property manager can be a valuable asset. Consider exploring this option if you're a homeowner seeking a professional to handle the day-to-day operations of your home. By hiring a property manager, you can enjoy the convenience, expertise, and peace of mind that comes with entrusting your home to capable hands.

Many homeowners hope to make sure their beloved house is well cared for. With Belong PRO, you’ll never have to worry about bad residents, late rent, cost blowouts, or 2 am phone calls ever again. 

Visit our homeowner's page to find out more about how our services are helping people to ditch Seattle Property Management, Redmond Property Management, Oakland Property Management, and more.

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