Welcome to The Playroom

We've named our blog after the most joyful room in the house, because that's the feeling which best describes living in a Belong home. We'll be sharing tips, trends and stories from our community that capture the many ways in which we're making long-term renting a new way of life. One where all people Belong.

All Articles

A couple stand in a kitchen with a laptop and calculator, looking concerned over unplanned fees and charges. Uncover property management fees that are costing landlords a fortune.

These 7 Hidden Property Manager Fees Are Costing Landlords Millions

Before hunting the cheapest property management fees, check the fine print for 7 hidden costs that could be eroding your passive income and rental cash flow.

Property Management

Written By Melanie Kershaw

Last Updated Jan 16, 2024

Is owning a rental property worth it? Image shows a furnished lounge room in an article about owning rental property and if renting a house is worth it

Is Owning a Rental Property Worth it? The Pros and Cons

Single-family rentals are great investments, but is owning a rental property worth it? See the pros and cons of owning a rental home and becoming a landlord.

Finance and Investments

Written By Melanie Kershaw

Last Updated Jan 15, 2024

A suburban street in Florida, where laws and proposed bills are changing the rules for landlords and their tenants

3 Legal Changes and Bills Florida Landlords Should Be Prepared For in 2024

New Florida rental housing laws 2024: The rules are changing, here's 3 bills that landlords need to know when renting out their home in 2024.

Florida

Written By Melanie Kershaw

Last Updated Jan 8, 2024

Young couple high-fiving in the kitchen while looking at a laptop, securing guaranteed rent for their property

How Guaranteed Rent is Changing Property Management Forever

Almost 10 million Americans are behind in their rental payments. Guaranteed rent is a new innovation that protects homeowners when it comes time to collect.

Property Management

Written By Tyler Infelise

Last Updated Jan 1, 2024

A white calculator on a white background reads '2024', representing rental home finances in the year 2024

8 Actions Rental Landlords Can Take For Better Financial Returns In 2024

Get your rental property financially fit with 8 actions landlords can take over winter to improve their rental finances, cash flow and tax return in 2024.

Property Management

Written By Melanie Kershaw

Last Updated Dec 31, 2023

A photo showing a statue of "Lady Justice", a symbol of the US legal system, as discussed in this article on criminal activity in rental homes.

Can Landlords Be Held Responsible For Criminal Activities On Their Properties?

Landlords have legal responsibilities to their tenants but can also be held liable for not taking measures to limit criminal activity, nuisance and even noise!

Landlord-Tenant Relationships

Written By Melanie Kershaw

Last Updated Dec 27, 2023

A view through open double-doors to show a family of three enjoying breakfast at a dining table with food and a laptop visible, depicting the sense of home and belonging

2023 In Review: Giving More People A Place To Belong

Belong is building a residential network that connects people who own homes with people who want a place to belong. Here's what we achieved together in 2024.

Belong

Written By Ale Resnik

Last Updated Dec 27, 2023

A row of rental houses in California, which will face new legislation changes for landlords in 2024

California Rental Laws Are Changing in 2024: What Landlords Need To Know

New California rental housing laws 2024: The rules are changing, here's 5 laws that Californian landlords need to know when renting out their home in 2024.

California

Written By Melanie Kershaw

Last Updated Dec 19, 2023

An image of the Supreme Court, which ruled to end the rent and eviction moratorium on August 26, 2021, but some local areas have extended rules against evicting those affected financially by COVID-19

2024 Rent Moratoriums & Extensions: Eviction Laws Landlords Should Be Aware Of

Is there still a moratorium on evictions in 2024? It varies by city and county. Get a rundown on rent moratorium rules that are having eviction hardship extension or expiring in 2024.

Legal & Regulatory

Written By Melanie Kershaw

Last Updated Dec 14, 2023

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