Provided by Bigger Pockets
For a real estate investor, knowing how to find a real estate agent who is investor-friendly is the key to successful real estate investments.
Finding the right property to create rental income takes time, energy, and patience; real estate agents can do the work for you, but you must find the right one.
The downside is that not all real estate agents understand how investment properties work well enough, so you must find investor-friendly agents to ensure you make the desired profits.
Here’s how a real estate investor can find the best deals with the right real estate agent for your investment property business.
What Is an Investor-Friendly Real Estate Agent?
Read more: 5 Ways to Find an Investor-Friendly Real Estate AgentNot all real estate agents know the features investors need when purchasing rental properties. Some real estate agents work primarily with buyers looking for a primary residence.
These buyers have many different needs than real estate investors. Primary residence real estate agents focus on features primary homebuyers need for their family versus considering after-repair value, the local rental market, or renovation costs.
An investor-friendly agent understands the business side of purchasing rental properties and will help investors find properties that not only meet their budget but also help them achieve their investment goals.
You need a real estate agent with the pulse on everything real estate-related, including off-market properties, rental income, demand, renovation, the local market, and overall costs.
Finding a good rental property requires a lot of help from many professionals to make it work. It takes a village to invest in real estate.
TurboTenant is a great option for landlords with just a few doors or for those who may be new to using rental property software.
For the most part, TurboTenant’s software is free to use so they are perfect for those on a tight budget.
With a very minimal monthly fee, landlords can upgrade to have such items as all landlord forms, leases, and addendums included as well as accelerated marketing, rent deposits, and customer service assistance on TurboTenant.
The Best Ways to Find Investor-Friendly Agents
You probably wonder how you can find an investor-friendly real estate agent, since they all seem to do the same thing: help people buy and sell houses.
Most real estate agents focus on primary residence purchases and sales, so it’s important to know how to find the right agent, including what to ask them and how to choose between multiple agents if you have several leads.
Here are the best ways to find the right real estate agents for a rental property investor.
1. BiggerPockets Agent Finder
If you want to skip the legwork and find an agent that suits your real estate investment needs quickly, try BiggerPockets Agent Finder.
This network of investor-friendly real estate agents helps you quickly connect with professionals who can help you find the best real estate property to build your portfolio.
BiggerPockets Agent Finder is great for new and experienced investors. It provides access to real estate agents in all real estate investment areas with expertise in fix-and-flips, rental properties, and all the necessary decisions real estate investors must make.
2. Real estate investing groups
These groups, including those on social media, can connect you with the right professionals.
Not only will you network with other investors to get ideas, but you may also network with investor-friendly agents who understand real estate investing and the nuances investors must follow.
You can find real estate investing groups online, on social media, and in your local market to meet in person.
3. Property management companies
Since property managers have firsthand experience with real estate agents, they can give you advice to determine if they’d be a good fit for your real estate business. Like any referral, do your due diligence to ensure the agent meets your needs.
4. Social media
You may not think of social media as a way to find investor-friendly agents, but word of mouth is key in the real estate industry.
You can share what you do on social media and see what connections your friends and family have that may help.
You can also join real estate-focused groups that may connect you with an agent who works with real estate investors. Sometimes, you may get connections not even through something you post, but through a post someone else makes that helps you find the right professionals.
5. Referrals
Referrals are the highest compliment any real estate agent can receive, and they can help you find the best investor-friendly agent.
You can get referrals from other real estate investment industry professionals, such as other investors, local lenders, contractors, and even friends or family.
When you receive a referral, ask fellow investors questions about the type of transaction they conducted, the experience the referral had, and any pointers they might provide to help you make the most of your transaction.
What to Look For in an Investor-Friendly Real Estate Agent
When learning how to find an investor-friendly real estate agent, it’s important to understand what qualities they should possess.
Just like when you buy a home for your primary residence, you want an agent who understands the real estate market, cash flow, rental income, and net operating income.
Here are the key characteristics to consider.
Works as a full-time agent
As of 2020, a many as 22% of agents work real estate on the side or as a part-time gig. This may work for agents helping buyers and sellers of primary residences, but real estate investors need someone much more involved in the real estate industry.
Investment properties can sell quickly, especially in a competitive market. Time is of the essence, and having a part-time real estate agent may not fit the bill because you could miss out on great rental property opportunities.
The right real estate agent will work full time and fully immerse themselves into the real estate investment property market trends to help you build your real estate portfolio.
Invests in real estate for themselves
You can’t beat firsthand knowledge of the investment property industry.
A real estate agent who owns investment properties understands the factors investors must consider when choosing properties. These factors include cash flow, rental home demand, costs, and capital gains.
Of course, working with an agent who is also a real estate investor has a downside, since they can be a competitor. When interviewing real estate agents, ask if they have real estate investments, if they are in the market to keep growing their business, and what strategies they use.
You may find an investor-friendly real estate agent who invests but with a different strategy than you, ensuring there isn’t a conflict of interest in the relationship.
Understands real estate investing terms
Real estate investing requires many more terms than a traditional real estate transaction. Homebuyers purchasing a home for their primary use don’t throw around investor lingo like cap rate, net operating income, gross rent multiplier, and internal rate of return.
Working with the right agent who understands these terms and how to use them when helping you find the right rental property is the key to successfully investing in real estate.
The last thing you want is a real estate agent who doesn’t understand these terms and sells you a property that doesn’t have investment potential.
Knows how to spot good real estate investment deals
A knowledgeable real estate agent who understands investment opportunities can look at a rental property deal and know if it’s a good fit.
They won’t look simply at the gross rent and compare it to your potential mortgage payment and deem it a good deal (or not).
Instead, they will understand all the factors in a real estate investment deal, including repairs, maintenance, capital expenditures, and vacancies.
Access to off-market properties
Traditional real estate agents focus only on MLS listings. However, there are often many more opportunities available off market.
Knowing about these properties first can allow you to find your next investment property quickly and for a better deal.
This is often the case with distressed properties.
So if you’re a fix-and-flip investor, you want someone with eyes and ears in the local market, locating properties you can buy before they become a short sale or foreclosure.
Works with (or is) a property manager
Some real estate agents are also property managers or work closely with them. This close access may give you access to more off-market listings.
Property managers have direct contact with landlords and usually are the first to know when an owner wants to sell a property.
You don’t have to use the real estate agent as your property manager if you aren’t comfortable with the conflict of interest. However, the close connection with potential real estate investments could help you make more profitable investments.
Knows the neighborhoods and communities well
A deep knowledge of the local market is crucial for successful investors. A good investor-friendly agent knows the area as a whole and has intimate knowledge of certain neighborhoods and communities.
The knowledge such agents possess can help you make more informed decisions.
For example, you’ll get to know details about things like local school districts; commuter trends; local amenities such as retail shops, churches, and other community needs; and zoning. Each of these details plays a role in your decisions when investing.
For example, if you’re buying a larger rental property, your target market is probably families with kids. This market will care greatly about school districts. If the school district isn’t highly rated, you may have more vacancies than you hoped.
Has great connections
A real estate agent with a strong understanding of the real estate market should also have connections throughout the industry.
Real estate investing requires access to many professionals, such as appraisers, contractors, real estate lawyers, lenders, title companies, and insurance agents. A real estate investment is much easier to accomplish when you have a team of experts to help you.
Finding these experts yourself can be time-consuming, and you may not always choose the best professionals. Relying on the network of an experienced real estate professional can help you achieve your real estate goals.
Responds in a timely manner
Even if you think you’ve found the perfect real estate agent for investment property purchases, they may not be a good fit if they don’t respond in a timely manner.
When talking to real estate agents, ask how they conduct their business. Do they communicate via phone, email, or another way? How often do they check in with investors?
Determine if a real estate agent contacts clients immediately upon finding a property, especially off-market properties, or if they consolidate their communications, causing you to potentially miss a good opportunity.
You can test the waters by paying attention to whether the agent returns your calls or messages within the time promised and if they have the required answers.
Also, pay attention to whether the agent always arrives on time for scheduled showings or meetings. An agent who is perpetually late likely won’t help you move forward with your business.
How to Interview a Prospective Agent for Investment Properties
Finding who you think is the best investor-friendly agent may not be the case once you dig a little deeper. The first step is reading their qualifications online or talking to other real estate professionals about them.
Next, interview them to ensure they are a good fit for your real estate investing needs. You should hear firsthand the answers to your questions, as you may have different needs or concerns than other professionals.
Here are some common questions to ask an investor-friendly agent:
- How long have you worked with real estate investors?
- What types of properties do you help real estate investors buy or sell?
- What areas do you primarily work in, and how long have you worked there?
- Do you have investment properties that you own and manage?
- Do you work with a property management company?
- Are you able to find off-market or pocket listings?
- Do you have a network of real estate professionals you work with and can refer to me when I find a property?
- Can I contact previous clients to see how the process went with them?
Best Practices in Finding Investor-Friendly Real Estate Agents
Knowing how to find an investor-friendly real estate agent is the key to successfully running a real estate business.
Even though buyers don’t pay commissions to real estate agents, the wrong information or missing an off-market deal could cost you thousands of dollars.
Before using a real estate agent for your next investment property purchase, consider finding an investor-friendly real estate agent. You can use BiggerPockets Agent Finder or local resources to help you reach your goals.
By David Crown, Chief Executive Officer, Los Angeles Property Management Group
I once knew someone who ignored a termite report, thinking the problem couldn’t really be that bad. They then had to completely reframe a four-unit building, replacing every single piece of wood in two of the units. Who was the foolish owner in that scenario? That was me. I was relatively lucky—it only ended up costing me about $50,000 to fix that quadruplex in Silverlake, but that’s still an expensive lesson, and believe me, I learned it. I’ve been in property management for three decades now, and in that time, I’ve seen the best and the worst of what this industry has to offer, ranging from impressive workmanship to a few tragic mistakes.
I’ve written about preventative maintenance before, but it’s a subject I couldn’t possibly exhaust in one article—or ten. Nor can I overstate its importance to this industry. It might be the best thing we do for rental property owners, maybe even the best case for property managers to exist at all. Preventative maintenance isn’t just about cautionary tales. You’re not just averting disaster by taking these measures; you’re shrewdly pushing your property to the highest level of its potential profits. It’s better to go out of your way to do something smart than it is to just avoid doing something dumb.
To that end, here are three preventative maintenance “hacks” that will significantly impact the “health” of your building in the long term.
Read more: Three Simple Maintenance “Hacks” to Keep Your Building Healthy
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Main Line Cleaning
This service scrubs out your main line of any debris or blockages. It will extend the life of your building’s sewer main by many, many years. It’s one of the most effective but neglected maintenance hacks out there. Don’t assume your current management has already thought to have it done—this is something to ask about. The cost of a new main line is far higher than the cost of getting a main line cleaned. This actually serves as a fairly reliable measure of capable managers. If your management company can tell you the last time they scrubbed out your main, you’re probably in good hands.
Gutter and Downspout Cleaning
Sounds stupid simple, but a lot of people never have it done. It’s crucially important to help water drain from the roof. Especially in a year like the one we’ve had, with record rainfall, it goes a long way in keeping your property safe and leak-proof. Anybody who’s ever had to deal with a mold remediation situation can attest to the importance of keeping unwanted moisture out of a rental property, and the astronomical costs that can come with failure to do so. I walked through a prospective client’s building a week ago that had three apartment units stacked on top of each other, and all of them were entirely ruined by one leak.
Strategic Hiring
The third “hack” wears boots! That’s right, it’s a team that keeps a careful calendar and performs all of the above and more maintenance actions on a regularly scheduled basis. Once, I was walking a property to inspect it when my colleague and I found a lit pilot light that was burning yellow, which meant it was emitting carbon monoxide. Thankfully we took action and immediately fixed the issue, but we might not have had the chance if we hadn’t been there in the first place conducting our inspection. So if you own apartments, I recommend hiring a management company with a dedicated maintenance team that runs on a strict schedule, visiting properties often and inspecting them thoroughly.
Sometimes, the simple fixes are the most impactful, and if you overlook them, you risk winding up in one of my many cautionary tales. But none of this is rocket science or requires cutting-edge technology. I didn’t get my Ph.D from Harvard in Property Management. (I did get my BA in English from Northridge. Go Matadors). Apply these maintenance hacks to keep your property healthy.
David Crown is the Chief Executive Officer of Los Angeles Property Management Group and has over thirty years of experience managing all types of income properties. Mr. Crown has been asked to serve as an expert witness in property management matters, and currently serves on the Forbes Real Estate Council. He can be reached directly at (323) 433-5254.
Article provided by Shelby Bartz, Precision Air and Plumbing. See contact information below.
If you are planning to buy or sell a property, or if you are simply being proactive before a heatwave hits next summer, you might want to pay attention to the air conditioning system. A well-functioning AC unit can make a big difference in the comfort and value of your home. But how can you spot hidden AC issues during a property inspection?
In this blog, we will share some tips and tricks to help you identify common AC problems and how to prevent them. Whether you have a duct, vent, mini-split, or any other type of AC system, you will learn how to check the airflow, temperature, cleanliness, and efficiency of your unit. It will help you avoid costly air conditioning repairs and replacements in the future. So, let’s get started!
How to Find Air Conditioner Issues When Inspecting a Property
Read more: How to Spot Hidden AC Issues During Property InspectionsWhile it’s impossible to diagnose all AC problems without a professional inspection, there are some key things you can look for to uncover hidden issues. Here are a few tips:
- Check the airflow. Place your hand near a vent to feel the airflow. If the airflow is weak or inconsistent, it could be a sign of a dirty air filter, clogged vents, or a faulty blower motor.
- Listen for unusual noises. A well-maintained AC system should operate quietly. If you hear any strange noises, such as grinding, squealing, or rattling, it could be a sign of a problem with the compressor or other internal components.
- Look for signs of moisture. Water leaks around the indoor or outdoor unit can indicate a refrigerant leak or other serious issue.
- Inspect the ductwork. If the ductwork is damaged or leaky, it can reduce the efficiency of your AC system and lead to poor airflow.
- Check for mold growth. Mold can grow in damp, dark places, such as inside the AC unit or ductwork. If you see any mold growth, it’s important to have it professionally cleaned and remediated.
Look for Signs of Refrigerant Leaks
Refrigerant is a chemical compound that circulates through the AC system to absorb heat from the indoor air and release it outdoors. Without refrigerant, your AC unit would not be able to cool your home.
Here are some tips for detecting refrigerant leaks during a property inspection:
- Inspect the AC unit for any signs of physical damage. A crack or hole in the AC unit can cause a refrigerant leak.
- Listen for any hissing sounds coming from the AC unit.
- Check the evaporator coils for any ice accumulation.
- Compare your current energy bills to previous bills to see if there has been a sudden increase.
Check for Proper Airflow in Your Air Conditioning System
Airflow is essential for efficient and effective cooling. Here are some steps to check the airflow in your air conditioning system:
- Turn on your air conditioner and set it to the desired temperature.
- Check the vents in each room to make sure that they are open and unobstructed.
- Put your hand up to each vent to feel the airflow. The airflow should be strong and consistent. If you don’t feel any air or if there is low airflow, there may be a problem with your system.
Check the Thermostat
An accurately calibrated thermostat is essential for efficient home cooling. When the thermostat is calibrated correctly, it ensures that your AC unit turns on and off at the right times to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. It can save you money on your energy bills and help to extend the lifespan of your AC system.
Here are some tips for checking the thermostat during a property inspection:
- Check the thermostat’s location. The thermostat should be located in a central location in your home, away from direct sunlight and drafts.
- Check the thermostat’s settings. Make sure that the thermostat is set to the correct cooling mode and temperature.
- The thermostat does not turn on or off at the correct times. It could be a sign of a faulty thermostat or a problem with your AC system.
- The thermostat does not accurately reflect the temperature in your home. It could be due to an inaccurate calibration or a problem with the thermostat itself.
- The thermostat turns on and off frequently. It could be a sign of a problem with your AC system, such as a low refrigerant charge or leaky ducts.
- The thermostat’s display is dim or difficult to read. It could be a sign of a faulty thermostat or low batteries.
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Assess the Evaporator Coil for Issues
The evaporator coil is a critical component of your AC system. It is responsible for absorbing heat from the indoor air and transferring it to the refrigerant. The refrigerant then circulates to the condenser coil, where the heat is released to the outdoors.
Tips for inspecting the evaporator coil during a property inspection:
- Remove the access panel to the evaporator coil. It is usually located on the indoor unit of your AC system.
- Inspect the evaporator coil for any signs of dirt, dust, or debris. If the coil is dirty, it can be cleaned with a coil brush and vacuum cleaner.
- Check for any signs of ice accumulation on the evaporator coil. If there is ice on the coil, it is a sign of a problem with your AC system. You should call a qualified HVAC technician to inspect the system.
Additional Tips:
- You can also use a mirror to inspect the evaporator coil if you cannot see it directly.
- If the evaporator coil is heavily clogged, it may need to be professionally cleaned.
- A dirty evaporator coil can also reduce indoor air quality. The dirt and dust on the coil can trap allergens and other pollutants, which can be circulated throughout your home.
The Importance of HVAC Experts for Thorough AC Inspections
The significance of involving HVAC professionals for thorough AC inspections during property assessments cannot be overstated. When your air conditioner is experiencing common problems such as weak airflow, cold air turning warm, or inadequate cooling inside your home, it’s time to call in the experts from Precision Air and Plumbing.
HVAC companies like them possess the expertise to troubleshoot and identify issues within your AC system, whether it’s related to the compressor, fan, refrigerant levels, or the air handler. Professional service ensures that your system is working correctly, covering everything from checking electrical connections to evaluating the amount of refrigerant and airflow. Don’t hesitate to engage HVAC professionals to get to the bottom of any air conditioner problems and maintain an energy-saving, optimally functioning system.
Identifying AC Issues: A Crucial Aspect of Property Inspection
When it comes to property inspections, the importance of a well-functioning air conditioning system cannot be overstated. Ensuring the air conditioner’s system is working correctly is not only for your comfort level but also for energy-saving purposes.
Be proactive in identifying and addressing these concerns to keep the air conditioner running in your prospective property.
About the author:
Shelby Bartz is the new Content Editor of Precision Air & Plumbing, a full-service HVAC, plumbing, and home performance contractor operating in Chandler, Arizona. Shelby is a devoted bookworm but when she isn’t reading, you’ll find her cruising around town with her beloved ginger husky, Maxxy.
Company Information:
Precision Air & Plumbing
Feel free to contact us any time at 480-680-9791 for immediate assistance.
Listen On:
Whoa, is this a doozy of an episode! Or should I say our next 3 episodes!
We are doing a mini masterclass on leases and addendums for rental property owners, and this is an episode you will NOT want to miss!
Even if you use a preformed lease or one from your property manager, you need know THIS ONE PART of your rental property business. What’s in your lease contract is what covers you and your asset.
Starting with the base lease (ours is 21 pages), we discuss each section that should be included in every landlord’s lease, and we explain why.
We are sharing stories and examples of certain sections to help our listeners understand their importance, as not every area pertains to all rental properties.
By going over our very comprehensive lease, section by section, paragraph by paragraph and discussing each and every clause and why it is important, you’ll soon be mastering leases and addendums too.
We do not expect DIY landlords to write their own leases! You can purchase REALLY GOOD leases online at EZ Landlord Forms. Check out the link and discount code in our links below!
Already have a lease? If you feel anything you learn in our next 3 episodes pertains to your rental property, take your lease to your legal team and have them add it in.
LINKS
✔️State Specific Leases
✔️ 400 Forms to make your landlord-tenant relationship top notch!
✔️ 200 FREE forms for those not ready to purchase.
✔️ 4.8 Rating with over 5000 Reviews!
✔️ Pro Members get access to ALL leases and forms for $12 per month OR $75 if you purchase the annual membership.
✔️ YOU CAN BUY LIFETIME FORMS for $399!
USE CODE 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐂𝐈𝐄𝟏𝟓 to get 15% OFF ALL first-time purchases, EVEN THE ANNUAL or LIFETIME FORMS!
Check out EZ Landlord Forms today!
👉Your Landlord Resource has teamed up with Toggle, a division of Farmers Insurance that offers competitive pricing of renters insurance for tenants.
Policies can start as low as $5 a month!
Copy and share our link with your tenants to get them started: http://go.gettoggle.com/SH1E
Download this PDF to present to your tenants with your renters insurance request! Toggle Renters Insurance Flier.pdf
👉 KwikSet Easy Re-Key Set Landlords! YOU MUST change the locks/rekey at every unit turnover. You have no idea whom your previous tenant gave a key to, and it is your responsibility (when it comes to access) to keep the new tenant safe from intruders.
Locksmiths can charge well over $50 to do this task!
If you have Kwikset Smartkey locks, you can purchase these replacement keys and rekey the unit yourself in a matter of minutes for $6.
👉Help other DIY landlords discover what we have to say… Please leave us a review of our podcast!
On Apple Podcast or ITunes, please scroll to the bottom of our main page (with our logo) and click “Write a Review”.
On Spotify, please click the 5.0⭐ on our the front page of our podcast page.
👉Join our Private Facebook Group! A space to ask questions and network with other DIY landlords.
Want the podcast link emailed to you weekly? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter, Landlord Weekly!
▪️Landlord Tips ▪️ Early Access to Our Blogs ▪️ Landlord Specific Articles by Other Industry Pro’s ▪️Podcast Links
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You might think this episode about Halloween tips for landlords does not pertain to you but take a minute to hear us out.
Halloween is a very festive time of year and is LOVED by people of all age groups, not just families with small children. I mean, there’s a reason Disney starts their Halloween festivities the day after Labor Day and continues it through October 31st!
These people love to decorate their homes, mostly the front yard. When those homes are rental properties, do they still have the right to decorate? Of course, but sometimes with limits.
What are the risks associated with Halloween? Lots! Think about the décor, parties, trick or treaters, and even the pets who live in your rentals.
In this episode we are talking all about Halloween festivity risks and covering what items landlords should be communicating with tenants. Plus, we include tips on what they can do to limit these risks as rental property owners.
LINKS
👉Your Landlord Resource has teamed up with Toggle, a division of Farmers Insurance that offers competitive pricing of renters insurance for tenants.
Policies can start as low as $5 a month!
Copy and share our link with your tenants to get them started: http://go.gettoggle.com/SH1E
Download this PDF to present to your tenants with your renters insurance request! Toggle Renters Insurance Flier.pdf
👉Help other DIY landlords discover what we have to say… Please leave us a review of our podcast!
On Apple Podcast or ITunes, please scroll to the bottom of our main page (with our logo) and click “Write a Review”.
On Spotify, please click the 5.0⭐ on our the front page of our podcast page.
👉Join our Private Facebook Group! A space to ask questions and network with other DIY landlords.
Want the podcast link emailed to you weekly? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter, Landlord Weekly!
▪️Landlord Tips ▪️ Early Access to Our Blogs ▪️ Landlord Specific Articles by Other Industry Pro’s ▪️Podcast Links
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If you have not done so, go back and listen to Episode 29 which is part 1 of this two-part series about fire safety in your rental properties.
It’s got a TON of important information about fire safety prevention with regards to clutter & hoarding, the use of small appliances like space heaters, air fryers, and crock pots, and what you need to pay attention to depending on if you have a single-family home or multifamily rental.
This episode we focused on
▪️ Inspections and the fire safety issues to be on the lookout for
▪️ Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, what we recommend, how many you need, and where they should be located.
▪️ Fire safety points to include in your lease and which addendums to use.
▪️ Fire escapes and escape plans for rental properties.
▪️ The fire codes you need to know and
▪️ And finally, how to help tenants who have pets on your property.
We really try to be very comprehensive when we bring you information to help you become confident and professional landlords. This and last week’s episodes are no exception!
LINKS
👉 Fire Escape Ladder we use in our rental. Put one in each bedroom on every level of the unit.
👉 Emergency Gas Shut Off Wrench: Attach to your gas meter so tenants can turn off gas in an emergency like fire or gas leak.
👉 Interconnecting Smoke Detectors: Great for multilevel homes or ones where the bedrooms are far removed from the living area. Once one is activated, it triggers all the others to alarm, bringing attention to your tenants much quicker than if they had to wait for the alarm to sound right near them. Limits damage to your unit too!
👉 Our Periodic Inspection Checklist. $5 gets you a 6-page checklist that covers up to a 4 bedroom, 4 bath rental property. Includes space to note if all is well or if an item needs attention. It’s very comprehensive and covers all areas of the home inside and out. Download it once and use it over and over!
👉 Escape plan information: Red Cross “How to create an escape plan” for a single-family home and multi-family rental property.
👉 FEMA: This webpage has multiple free, downloadable PDF’s regarding fire preparation and prevention, fire escape plans, etc.
👉 Renters Insurance we recommend: Toggle a division of Farmers Insurance that offers VERY affordable liability insurance and customizable policies.
👉 Pet Sticker Notification to advise emergency personnel there are pets inside.
👉Help other DIY landlords discover what we have to say… Please leave us a review of our podcast!
On ITunes, please scroll to the bottom of our main page (with our logo) and click “Write a Review”.
On Spotify, please click the 5.0⭐ on our the front page of our podcast page.
Want the podcast link emailed to you weekly? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter, Landlord Weekly!
▪️Landlord Tips ▪️ Early Access to Our Blogs ▪️ Landlord Specific Articles by Other Industry Pro’s ▪️Podcast Links
Provided by TurboTenant
Donating furniture and household items you no longer use is a perfect way to give back to your community while also going through your belongings. It’s especially strategic if you’re moving, downsizing, or decluttering.
Donating large furniture items isn’t as difficult as you might think. You don’t need a pickup truck or extra hands to get furniture to its destination. Instead, get in touch with one of the 10 charities listed below who will come and pick up household items for free or at an extremely reduced rate.
If you’re renting, save your landlord or property manager the hassle of dealing with furniture items that have been placed near or inside trash and recycling receptacles. And if you’re a landlord dealing with tenant abandonment, save yourself the headache of managing abandoned belongings.
Table of Contents
- Habitat for Humanity
- Salvation Army
- GreenDrop
- Pickup Please
- The Arc
- AMVETS
- The Furniture Bank Network
- Donation Town
- Housing Works
- PickUpMyDonation
Tips for Furniture Donation Pickup
How To Help Your Tenants Donate
Donation Pickup FAQs
1. Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity is an international nonprofit organization focused on creating affordable shelters for families, operating out of 70 countries and all 50 states. Habitat for Humanity is dedicated to educating communities on the barriers to affordable housing and the impact a healthy home has on families.
Habitat ReStores, Habitat for Humanity’s donation and home improvement store, offers furniture, large appliances, and building material pickup in most of their locations. You can schedule your pickup here.
Who your donation serves: Families across the U.S. and the world in need of affordable housing.
Items Habitat for Humanity accepts:
- Sofas
- Chairs
- Dining room tables
- Dressers
- Bed frames
- Coffee tables
- End tables
- Filing cabinets
- Bookshelves
Note: Any donated upholstered or leather furniture must be free of tears, stains, and pet damage. Also, if you’re renovating your home, here’s a list of renovation donations they accept.
2. The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is a Christian-based nonprofit that provides community-focused programs. It helps those who have experienced a disaster, poverty, addiction, domestic violence, and more.
The Salvation Army offers scheduled pickups and drop-off locations in a variety of areas. Use their ZIP code finder to schedule a pickup in your area and to determine which items are available for pickup. The Thrift Stores page also has ZIP code finders for drop-off locations, thrift stores, and vehicle donations. Note, The Salvation Army’s list of accepted is one of the most comprehensive.
Who your donations serve: Families who find themselves in crisis or those experiencing homelessness
Items The Salvation Army accepts:
- Vehicles
- Clothes
- Couches
- Household appliances
- Electronics
- Power tools
- Upright freezers
- Fridges
- Washers
- Armoires
- Grandfather clocks
- And more
3. GreenDrop
GreenDrop is a for-profit company and registered professional fundraising company. Their services are primarily located on the East Coast.
The organization distributes to the American Red Cross, the Military Order of the Purple Heart Service Foundation, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Philadelphia, and the National Federation of the Blind to raise funds through donation collection.
Who your donations serve: The American Red Cross, the Military Order of the Purple Heart Service Foundation, the National Federation of the Blind, and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul
Items GreenDrop accepts:
- Clothes and shoes
- Household items
- Kitchenware
- Games and toys
- Small appliances
- Electronics
- Sporting goods
- Books
- CDs and videos
- Small furniture (less than 50 pounds)
4. Pickup Please
Pickup Please is a donation program that helps veterans. It’s an extension of the Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA). They work in select states across the U.S., and you can schedule a free pickup online. Items will often be collected within 24 hours.
Pickup Please’s convenience and quick turnaround are some of their major benefits. However, their locations are limited and specific in what they’ll collect. All items should be small and light enough for one person to easily lift and carry, and they do not pick up large appliances, large furniture, or televisions.
Who your donations serve: Vietnam veterans
Items Pickup Please accepts:
- Clothes
- Small appliances
- Toys
- Electronics
- Books
- Sporting goods
- Non-fuel power tools
- Bikes
5. The Arc
The Arc was founded in 1950 to serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. The company has more than 600 chapters across the U.S.
You can drop off items or schedule a pickup by calling your local chapter. Use this chapter locator to see what items are accepted and to schedule a free pickup (if allowed). To donate a car, use this online donation form or call (877) 272-2270.
Who your donations serve: Children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Items The Arc accepts:
- Used vehicles
- Boats (with trailer)
- Recreational vehicles
- Furniture and housewares
- Clothing
- Electronics
- Books
- Toys and games
*All items are location-dependent
6. AMVETS
The AMVETS National Service Foundation represents more than 20 million veterans and has more than 250,000 members nationwide. AMVETS has physical stores and donation pickups across the country.
You can schedule a pickup in the following states and areas: Maryland, Washington D.C., northern Virginia, Delaware, Texas, and Oklahoma.
Who your donations serve: United States veterans
Items AMVETS accepts:
- Clothes
- Small appliances
- Electronics
- Jewelry
- Kitchenware
- Household items
- Flat-screen TVs (five years old or newer)
- Exercise equipment (five years old or newer)
- Computers
- Books
You can inquire about items not listed by emailing info@amvetspickup.org.
7. The Furniture Bank Network
The Furniture Bank Network consists of registered charities that help individuals donate gently used furniture to people in need. This collective helps other organizations with furniture pickup.
They serve a wide range of people, including but not limited to those who are unemployed, immigrants, families that have experienced domestic violence or homelessness, and those affected by natural disasters/fires.
Use their North American location finder to see if there’s a furniture bank near you.
Who your donations serve: Families who have experienced homelessness, unemployment, domestic violence, natural disasters, robbery or fires
Items The Furniture Bank Network accepts:
- Gently used furniture
- Used cars and recreational vehicles
8. Donation Town
Donation Town is similar to Furniture Bank Network, but instead of acting as an overarching network, its website is a search engine in which individuals can locate charities. Think of it as an online real estate marketplace, where you can find homes for sale or rent. Instead of apartments or houses, it lists charities that offer donation pickup or have donation drop-off locations.
Each nonprofit Donation Town works with will provide you with a tax receipt for your donation.
Who your donations serve: Various charities across the United States and Canada
Items Donation Town accepts:
- Clothes
- Bedding
- Small appliances
- Household items
- Books
- Non-computer electronics
- Toys
- Sporting goods
- Office supplies
- Small furniture (small chairs, nightstands, end tables, bookshelves and small rugs)
- Home renovation items
- Vehicles
*The list above is general and varies depending on your local charity. You can see which items Donation Town does not accept here.
9. Housing Works
Housing Works’ mission is to help support the community of people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS, particularly those experiencing homelessness or poverty. Housing Works was founded in 1990 and provides service to more than 30,000 homeless and low-income New Yorkers.
Housing Works offers online donations, thrift shop donations, and furniture pickup. You can learn more about furniture pickup here or call (212) 366-0820. Schedule a pickup here.
Who your donations serve: Individuals in New York living with or affected by HIV/AIDS
Items Housing Works accepts:
- Furniture in excellent condition
- Clothing (in plastic garbage bags only)
- Antiques
- Art
- Houseware (packed in boxes)
- Jewelry
- Clean rugs (up to 6′ x 9′ with occasional exceptions)
- Up to 4 boxes of books (24″ x 24″ box max)
You can find a detailed list of items Housing Works does and does not accept here.
10. PickUpMyDonation
Similar to Pickup Please, PickUpMyDonation aims to make the donation process easier for nonprofits. Since 2012, PickUpMyDonation has helped donate more than $89 million to nonprofit organizations.
The process is easy. You make a donation request based on your ZIP code and select either a free pickup or priority pickup. Priority pickup requires a fee, but is carried out by professional moving companies that have partnered with PickUpMyDonation and will move donations to a local thrift store or donation center. The free version puts you in contact with other nonprofits, some of which have free pickup services.
Who your donations serve: A variety of local charities and nonprofit organizations
Items PickUpMyDonation accepts:
- Large household items that meet their minimum requirements
Tips for Furniture Donation Pickup
If you’re having a difficult time deciding what to donate, check out the flowchart to help them quickly decide which item should be donated, kept, or trashed.
Donating household items, appliances, and furniture can happen year-round, especially when you’re moving homes or downsizing. Another time to donate is if you upgrade furniture and don’t know what to do with the old pieces.
Below are four steps to follow when scheduling a donation pickup:
1. Research Your Charity
The above-listed charities and others not listed use your donation directly or indirectly to help individuals. That being said, most charities serve a particular group of people. Research each organization’s website to ensure its values align with your beliefs or if there’s one you’d prefer to reach out to.
2. Confirm the Organization Accepts Your Donation Type
Most importantly, confirm that the organization accepts your donation type. Many of these nonprofits’ websites list items that they do and do not accept, along with exceptions. If your chosen charity doesn’t accept or won’t pick up one of your items, research one of the other ones on our list.
3. Schedule a Donation Pickup Time With the Charity
Most charities make it easy to schedule a donation pickup. You can typically do so by filling out an online form, sending an email, or inquiring via phone. Once you have a move date, schedule your donation pickup. It’s best to plan ahead so you’re not in too much discomfort without an often-used furniture piece like a bed or couch.
Note: Charity donations increase dramatically during the holiday season so there might be longer wait times for scheduled pickups.
4. Coordinate Donation Pickup Time With Landlord and Neighbors
As a tenant, it’s best to make your landlord and close neighbors aware of your scheduled donation pickup. If you can’t be there during the exchange, ask a neighbor or friend to sub in for you. Also, let your landlord know so they don’t toss the item intended for donation or fine you for breaking lease rules.
How to Help Your Tenants Donate
Part of being a great landlord means organizing fun and exciting events for your tenants. One option is to create a canned food drive or a donation pickup for your tenants. You can organize a community-wide donation pickup by contacting one of the above-listed organizations and working with them to do a large sitewide pickup.
Below are a few donation pickups or drives the entire complex or community can help with:
- Canned food drives
- Clothing drive
- Animal shelter needs
- Toy drive
- Blood drive
Another option is to advertise these charities that pick up appliances and furniture via email, flyers, or your monthly newsletter. This way, tenants are fully aware of these services. You can organize this type of event annually during high turnover seasons, biannually, or quarterly.
Ava Johns
Ava is the Digital Marketing Specialist at TurboTenant where she manages outreach efforts while writing content to educate rental property owners. With a focus on inclusive and engaging communications, she is excited to help landlords strengthen their professional relationships with tenants and self-manage their rentals better.
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It’s that time of year again when the weather cools and people start to heat up their homes. It’s also the time of year when the number of residential fires increases.
Next week is National Fire Prevention Week and we have A LOT to say about rental properties and how to work with your tenant to prevent a fire in your unit.
So much to say that we did a podcast all about it and ended up having to split it into 2 parts!
This week, on part 1 we discuss,
▪️ How the age of your rental property can have an increased risk of fire danger and what to look for to lessen the chance of a fire in it.
▪️ Space heaters, candles, and flammable materials in rental units and how to deal with those.
▪️ Single family home rentals vs Multifamily properties and the fire risks associated with them.
▪️ The most common fires that occur in rental properties and how to guide your tenants on how to avoid them.
▪️ Hoarding and the fire risks associated with it for both the tenant and the fire fighters.
▪️ Whether those new fire blankets being marketed all over are a good replacement for small kitchen sized fire extinguishers inside your units.
▪️ And finally, we are talking about how many fire extinguishers you need to provide for your rental property.
That’s just what we cover this week so you can see why we had to split it into 2 episodes!
LINKS
👉 YouTube Video On How to Use a Fire Extinguisher by Consumer Reports.
👉 FREE PDF from Kidde on Placement and use of a Fire Extinguisher.
👉 National Fire Protection Agency, Code Finder for fire codes by State.
👉 Kitchen fire extinguisher we use in our rentals.
👉Help other DIY landlords discover what we have to say… Please leave us a review of our podcast!
On ITunes, please scroll to the bottom of our main page (with our logo) and click “Write a Review”.
On Spotify, please click the 5.0⭐ on our the front page of our podcast page.
Want the podcast link emailed to you weekly? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter, Landlord Weekly!
▪️Landlord Tips ▪️ Early Access to Our Blogs ▪️ Landlord Specific Articles by Other Industry Pro’s ▪️Podcast Links
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So, this might surprise you, but cash reserves are not a one size fits all concept. There are a lot of factors that contribute to how much you should set aside, like where you are in your real estate investment journey.
Of course, there is the subject of mindset to consider as well so we go over that along with different methods to determine how much cash to reserve.
This episode gives rental property owners a blueprint on the methodology behind determining how much cash reserves is enough.
We take a deep dive into what cash reserves are, do you need them, and if you do, how to determine how much will make you feel comfortable should you get into an unfortunate situation and need to draw on them.
LINKS
👉Help other DIY landlords discover what we have to say… Please leave us a review of our podcast!
On ITunes, please scroll to the bottom of our main page (with our logo) and click “Write a Review”.
On Spotify, please click the 5.0⭐ on our the front page of our podcast page.
Want the podcast link emailed to you weekly? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter, Landlord Weekly!
▪️Landlord Tips ▪️ Early Access to Our Blogs ▪️ Landlord Specific Articles by Other Industry Pro’s ▪️Podcast Links
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Fall is the season when it’s time to baton down the hatches and prep for winter. In the old days, people would be using this time to can vegetables they grew in their garden over the summer months or fix broken fences so the livestock wouldn’t escape. City slickers were using this time to pull out their winter gear and buy new galoshes!
Just like every other season, fall is a time to prepare for a potentially harsh winter ahead. So, we are in Northern California and with the exception of our mountainous areas, we don’t see exceptionally harsh winters. But that doesn’t mean that we do not prepare our rental properties located here for the winter months. We still get pretty big storms with high winds and last year, quite a bit of unexpected rainfall. The point is inspections are always a good idea. Even more so just before the cold winter months set it.
In this episode we give you suggestions on what fall seasonal maintenance items you should be doing for your rental properties, especially if they will experience freezing temperatures this coming winter season.
We time this preventative maintenance along with our semi-annual property inspections. This way we can lessen the amount of disruption to our tenants and keep our time on property to a minimum, which also helps us remain efficient in our business.
Where we touch on the things you should focus on inside the unit, most of the tasks are for the exterior of your rental property. We discuss what to do and why it is important. The rest is up to you.
LINKS
👉 Episode 4: The Importance of Rental Property Inspections
Too many landlords take the hands-off approach, thinking their tenants don’t want to be bothered. That the less contact they have with the tenant, the better. Maybe they won’t move out, maybe they won’t ask us for any improvements, maybe they won’t complain. Guess what? By avoiding the tenants, you’re ignoring your biggest asset, your rental property.
It has been statistically shown that rental properties that go without maintenance, have a higher turnover than those with active, attentive landlords.
Just like your personal home or your vehicle, rental properties need periodic maintenance. It needs to be checked to make sure your tenants are caring for it as intended in the lease agreement.
👉 Purchase our 6-Page Inspection Checklist ($5.00). For properties up to 4 bedroom/4 bath and includes all pertinent areas to be inspected, including the exterior.
To date, this product is the only item we charge for. Help support our site while getting a valuable tool you can use over as many times as you’d like.
👉 Amazon Basics Outdoor Furniture Covers:
This page features all the covers Amazon Basics offers. We have tried the expensive ones and they lasted the same if not as well as these covers. Our patio furniture located in Sacramento is covered 24/7, 365 days a year except when it is in use, so it gets many hours of hot sun in the summer and keeps the furniture still looking like new after a windy, wet, cold winter. We highly recommend this product for your personal home or rental properties. You cannot beat the prices and variety of covers they offer.
👉 Outdoor Insulated Water Faucet Cover:
SUPER WATERPROOF & INSULATION – the outside spigot covers were made of heavyweight polyester waterproof fabric and special PP insulated cotton, which waterproof and insulate to guard against severe.
UNIVERSAL DIMENSION – the faucet protector measures 5.9″ W x 7.7″ H and works well with various faucet types, such as garden spigots, hose bibs, and water taps.
UNIQUE COVERING-WALL PATENT DESIGN – with this covering-wall clipping patent design, the great cover sock not only covers the faucet firmly, but hugs against the wall closely.
FLEXIBLE STRING TIE SYSTEM – comes with string tie, extremely easy to install or take off from your faucet within a few seconds, much easier to use than some foam covers or hook & loop tape styles.
Check out these insulated water faucet covers!
👉Help other DIY landlords discover what we have to say… Please leave us a review of our podcast!
On ITunes, please scroll to the bottom of our main page (with our logo) and click “Write a Review”.
On Spotify, please click the 5.0⭐ on our the front page of our podcast page.
Want the podcast link emailed to you weekly? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter, Landlord Weekly!
▪️Landlord Tips ▪️ Early Access to Our Blogs ▪️ Landlord Specific Articles by Other Industry Pro’s ▪️Podcast Links