When you read the title to this post, I bet you thought I was going to say “the rent.” But “the rent” is not a gift. Rent is simply a contractual obligation. Rent is paid in return for a place to live.
Gifts on the other hand are given without any expectation of a return. A gift is freely given. No one forces you to give a gift and no one will evict you if you do not give a gift.
Since this is the season for giving, what are some of the best gifts that a tenant can give?
- Their Continued Tenancy – There are a lot of choices out in the market place. We know you have a lot of options. You could move but you choose to keep renting from us. Thanks!
- A Good Reference –People still need to move sometimes. When they do, we want to get those vacant units rented as quickly as possible and a good reference from a good tenant goes a long way. Your recommendation to your friends means a lot to us and we do appreciate it.
- Return Business – Every once in a while, we have a tenant move only to have the situation that caused the move not pan out. More than once these tenants have wanted to come back and rent from us again. That says a lot. Again there are a lot of choices in the market place and we appreciate your repeat business.
Want to get more of these types of gifts? Here are some tips.
- Keep Your Properties Maintained – Nothing says “run away” or
”I don’t really care” more than a poorly maintained property. - Respond Quickly To Tenant Concerns – Be it noisy neighbors or a leaking roof, at least acknowledge the concern. If something needs to be fixed, fix it.
- Be Firm, But Fair – Have policies in place that treat everyone equally and do not play favorites. Be sure to explain what is expected of your tenants and hold them to it. Trust me, they like to know that that are a part of a tightly run ship.
- You Can Catch More Flies With Honey – This old phrase is really true. Sure you can yell and scream. You may even be 100% correct, but where will yelling and screaming get you? Will you really “win” the argument? Remember a little kindness can go a long way. We are all human and that brings ups and downs. Try not to add to the downs.
Remember that landlording is ultimately a people business. Take that extra step for your tenants and many will give you one in return.
Happy Holidays Everyone!
