Montgomery, AL, is a great choice for prospective property investors. The city's good schools, attractive business environment, and cultural attractions are a huge drawcard for long-term renters.
Succeeding as a landlord involves much more than simply finding a well-priced property in an appealing location. Most of the work starts once you've secured your new rental unit.
Maintenance coordination is one of the major tasks associated with being a landlord. It also takes up a lot of your precious time.
Hiring a property manager is an excellent solution for busy property owners struggling to keep up with maintenance tasks. Read on to find out more about this service and if it's included in your monthly fees.
What's Included in Property Management Packages?
Hiring a property management service helps prevent stress by freeing up your time. Property management costs usually cover a range of services, like:
- Marketing your property
- Tenant screening
- Routine property inspections
- Rent collection
- Lease origination
These landlord fees don't cover the costs of repairs and maintenance, but they do include some related services, i.e., maintenance coordination.
Maintenance Coordination Tasks
Under Alabama law, a landlord must keep their property in an acceptable state of habitability. Effective maintenance coordination is central to meeting this requirement.
This includes attending to tasks like:
- Roof inspections and repairs
- Plumbing issues
- HVAC servicing
- Testing safety equipment, like smoke detectors
Your property manager will keep tabs on these aspects during routine property inspections. They set up online tenant portals, so your tenants can report any maintenance issues.
When necessary, a property manager attends to the maintenance process from start to finish. Their responsibilities include:
- Setting up a maintenance schedule
- Identifying maintenance issues
- Arranging estimates and quotations
- Overseeing the work
- Managing invoice payments
Some property managers have an in-house maintenance team to help save time and money. Many of them have established relationships with local contractors to ensure you get preferential prices.
Who Pays for Property Repairs and Maintenance?
A landlord is always ultimately responsible for rental property upkeep. Tenants must keep the unit in an acceptable condition, but they don't pay for any repairs or maintenance unless they cause damage beyond the bounds of normal wear and tear.
Landlords can arrange for their tenants to take care of some maintenance aspects, like lawn care, but this must be stated clearly in the lease agreement.
It's best to set aside some money every month for maintenance expenses. Giving your property manager access to these funds can help streamline the maintenance and repair process.
Alternatively, your property manager can pay maintenance costs and deduct the amount from the rental money owed to you.
Make the Most of Your Montgomery Investment Properties
Property management fees don't include maintenance costs, but they do include maintenance coordination. This service helps maintain the value of your property, relieves stress, and encourages lease renewals.
PMI River Region can assist you with all your property management needs in the Montgomery area. We use the latest technology to enhance our offering while maintaining high standards of personalized service.
Find out how we can help you thrive as a landlord in Montgomery, AL.
