Frequently Asked Questions
What type of properties do you manage?
We specialize in residential properties, such as single family homes, duplexes and fourplexes, but we will be happy to discuss any of your needs.
What do you do to get my property leased?
- FOR RENT SIGNS - Posted at the property and separate signs leading to the property.
- RENTAL LOCATORS - We fax a copy of all our listings to dozens of Rental Locator companies in Boise area. These companies specialize in helping tenants find apartments, houses, and duplexes.
- INTERNET - We post our listings on the World Wide Web and link to other web sites that attract clients and tenants.
What, specifically, do you do to qualify a tenant after they have applied to rent?
- CREDIT REPORT - We run a credit report that tells us about the applicant’s attitude toward meeting their financial obligations. It also tells us their monthly debt load and shows their previous addresses.
- RENTAL REFERENCES - We personally talk to past landlords and ask about the tenant’s past performance. We go back a minimum of 2 past landlords.
- EMPLOYMENT/INCOME - We call the employer to verify length of employment, status, and income.
- EVICTION SEARCH – We check with the National Database of Evictions.
- CRIMINAL RECORDS SEARCH – We check the National Database on criminal records.
How do you make sure the tenant is taking good care of my property?
During the tenancy we personally inspect the outside of the property on a weekly basis. Throughout the term of the lease we may also have the necessity to enter the property for repair or maintenance reasons and will use that opportunity to have a look. If we are fortunate enough not to have any repairs or maintenance at your property over an extended period of time, we will schedule a walk-through with the tenant.
We also conduct thorough bi-annual inspections of each property. As well, prior to renewing a lease or allowing a tenant to remain month-to-month, we will walk through the property. Lastly we use any complaints from neighbors or other agencies as a means to inspect the property.
What do you do if they are not taking care of my property as they should?
We contact the tenant and give them 3 days to cure the problem as outlined in Idaho State Law. If the issue is not resolved to our satisfaction and as outlined in the Lease Agreement, we will contract the services of a third party to provide the maintenance. The charges for this service will be billed back to the tenant as outlined in their Lease Agreement.
What happens if the tenant doesn’t pay their rent?
If rent is not paid by the 5th of each month we will proceed with the options you have chosen at the time of signing your contract. These options can range from sending letters to visiting the tenant and lastly initiating eviction proceedings. Idaho State Law stipulates that the tenant has three (3) days to cure any problem before legal proceedings can be started.
How informed will I be about what happens with my property?
Any changes that happen to your property or the tenant will be conveyed immediately with a personal phone call, e-mail or letter, per your contract. Your monthly statement will include any non-emergency items along with the original copies of any invoices that have been approved and paid on your behalf. We strongly encourage you to call, e-mail or fax us with any questions at any time.
How do you handle maintenance requests?
Tenants have a detailed process they follow when a problem is noted. They have a list of items to check prior to submitting their Maintenance Request. Once we receive this request we verify the problem with the tenant and follow the guidelines outlined in your contract. Items under $100 are fixed without contacting the owner. Anything over $100 must be approved prior to spending any money.
When do you mail my check?
We mail owner's checks within 5 days of receiving the check from the tenant. Rent is due on the first of the month, and is considered late on the 5th of the month. Any fees are deducted and an itemized statement is provided no later than the 20th of each month. All checks are sent regular mail to the address you specify in your contract unless other arrangements have been made.
Will you deposit my money directly into my checking account?
We will provide this service if you request, but it is not our normal process.
Will you pay bills for me?
Other than your monthly mortgage payments, we will pay as many bills as you want us to handle.
How detailed will my monthly statement be?
Your monthly statement shows all income and expenses for the accounting period, a year to date summary, and the copy of receipts or invoices for any repairs.
What are your standard charges?
In most cases, we charge you 10% of gross monthly income, per account. (Each monthly fee is based on gross rental income.) We do offer special discounts down to 7% based on the number of rentals we handle for each client. This will all be outlined in your contract.
How long is your standard management agreement?
The management agreement we have with owners is for a minimum of 12 months with a possible roll over agreement at the time of expiration.