LANDLORD FAQ
What services do you provide?
I’m interested in managing my own property but would like help finding qualified tenants. Is this a service you provide?
Yes, our leasing-only option is ideal for landlords who self-manage. With this option, we handle pricing, marketing, showings, tenant screening, and leasing paperwork —so you can focus on maintaining your investment. Learn more here.
What type of properties do you manage?
We manage all types of properties including multi-family, single-family, commercial properties, condominium units, and condo associations and HOAs.
What are the fees for your management services?
Our property management fees generally range between 5% and 10% of the monthly rent, depending on factors such as rent roll, portfolio size, and property condition. We create tailored proposals for each owner to ensure pricing aligns with their specific needs and property requirements.
How do you market vacant properties?
High-quality photos and detailed descriptions of your properties will be featured on Zillow, HotPads, and Rent.com – as well as on social media, physical signage, and targeted email campaigns.
How do you screen applicants?
Our tenant screening process includes a thorough review of each applicant’s criminal background, rental history, eviction history, credit score, and income. For properties we both manage and lease, our minimal credit requirements are 650 or higher and a monthly income of at least three times the rent. If these criteria aren’t met, applicants may apply with a qualified co-signer, who must earn at least six times the monthly rent.
Do you create lease agreements?
Yes, for units that we manage, we use our proprietary lease. Our Leasing Director and assigned agent will work with an owner to determine any additional terms required. We will then send out the lease to applicants on your behalf. If we manage the unit, we will then countersign it on your behalf.
What is the lease renewal process?
We inspect your property 120 days before the end of the lease and discuss the results. We can then decide if you want to renew the lease with the current tenant and if you would like to increase the rent.
Who holds the tenant's security deposit?
For managed units, we hold the security deposit in an escrow account. Landlords that hire us only for leasing are required to hold the security deposit in an interest bearing escrow account under their name or LLC.
How do I get my home ready to rent?
Before we list your home, we suggest that you take care of the below:
Have your home professionally cleaned, especially the carpets
Touch up the paint in your rooms, preferably a neutral color
If applicable, mow and care for your lawn and remove any trash
An assigned leasing agent will do a walkthrough of your home before listing the property and provide feedback. Should there be any maintenance needs before listing, our team is able to provide qualified estimates, given by our trusted vendors at your cost.
How do you handle taking over management if I already have a renter in my property?
When we take over management with your existing tenant, we review the current lease, transfer the security deposit to our escrow account, and set up the property in our system. We then introduce ourselves to the tenant, explain how to pay rent and request maintenance, and handle all communication moving forward for a seamless transition.
Who handles maintenance and repairs for my property?
If you hire us to only lease your property, you are responsible for handling tenants’ maintenance requests. If we manage your property, we handle maintenance on your behalf using our trusted network of licensed and insured contractors. Our team handles scheduling, communication, and follow-up to ensure repairs are completed quickly and efficiently.
Can I be involved in the process to select a tenant for my property and/or vendors to complete repairs?
Yes, we encourage as much involvement as you’d like. We will always present applications to you for approval unless you request otherwise.
In regards to maintenance, we can also work with your vendors or we can use the trusted contractors that we’ve worked with for many decades.
What happens if a renter has an emergency on the weekends or during late hours?
We have a 24/7 emergency maintenance line that residents can contact for their maintenance needs while our office is closed.
How do you handle evictions if needed?
We work closely with a trusted attorney who manages the entire legal process to ensure everything is handled properly and in compliance with local laws. Our internal liaison communicates with you throughout the process, keeping you informed every step of the way. Once a court date is set, both our attorney and an internal company representative attend the proceedings to represent your best interests.
How do you handle situations when I want to sell my property?
If you decide to sell, we can connect you with one of our experienced real estate agents to provide a market analysis and help determine the right listing price based on current comps. If you’re already working with an agent, feel free to have them reach out to us directly.
How do you collect rent and handle late payments?
Tenants pay through an online portal or via check/money order mailed to our office. We conduct delinquency reviews beginning on the 6th of each month. We call, email and text tenants who are late with their payments and remind them of the outstanding balance and ask for an update as to when it will be paid.
When will I receive my rental disbursements?
Typically, we close the books around the 18th of each month depending on how weekends and holidays fall. The first direct deposit takes 3-5 business to hit your account, and then after that it is normally the next business day.
Do you provide owners with financial reporting? How often?
Owners receive monthly reports that are sent along with their distribution around the 18th. These are delivered via email and are accessible through the online portal.
Do you require landlords to have insurance?
Yes. All landlords must have homeowners’ insurance. Specific requirements of the coverage that we require are outlined in our management agreement.
Do you help with Philadelphia rental licenses?
Yes. This is a multi-step process that we handle. We take care of renewing the rental license each year for our owners. All properties built prior to 1978 require a lead certification every 4 years in order to obtain and renew their rental license.
How do you ensure compliance with local landlord-tenant laws?
The rental license and lead certifications will keep them compliant with the city.
