
Owning a rental property can be an excellent way to generate passive income and build wealth. However, it’s not all passive, and there are several things to consider before taking the plunge. Whether you’re looking to add a rental property to your portfolio or thinking about becoming a property manager yourself, it’s important to be aware of both the opportunities and the challenges that come with being a landlord.
Do You Want to Be a Property Manager?
One of the first questions you should ask yourself is whether you want to manage the property yourself or hire a property management company. While owning rental properties offers the potential for steady income, it comes with the responsibility of managing tenants, handling maintenance issues, and keeping up with legal and financial paperwork.
Here are some pros and cons to consider:
- Managing Yourself:
- Pros: You save on management fees and have complete control over your property.
- Cons: It’s time-consuming and can be stressful, especially if you have multiple properties or demanding tenants.
- Hiring a Property Manager:
- Pros: They take care of day-to-day management tasks like tenant screening, rent collection, and maintenance. This can give you more time and peace of mind.
- Cons: Property management services usually charge around 8-12% of monthly rent. This is an ongoing cost to consider.
Renters Might Not Pay Rent on Time
No matter how well you screen tenants, there’s always the chance that someone won’t pay rent on time. It’s an unfortunate reality of being a landlord. In fact, payment issues are one of the most common reasons landlords get frustrated with rental properties.
To mitigate this:
- Set clear expectations upfront with tenants about rent due dates and penalties for late payments.
- Consider offering online payment options to make it easier for tenants to pay on time.
- Always have a legal framework in place for handling late payments or evictions if necessary. Know your local laws on tenant rights and eviction processes.
Costs You Might Not Think Of
While many new landlords are prepared for the obvious costs of property ownership—such as mortgage payments, taxes, and insurance—there are hidden costs that might catch you off guard:
- Maintenance & Repairs: Things break, pipes leak, and appliances fail. Be prepared for the unexpected and budget accordingly.
- Vacancy Periods: There may be periods where your property is vacant, and you’re not collecting rent. Make sure you have a financial cushion to cover those times.
- Marketing & Leasing: Advertising your property, showing it to prospective tenants, and dealing with the leasing paperwork can all cost time and money.
- Legal & Administrative Fees: From leases to inspections to possible legal fees if a tenant breaks the lease, these can add up quickly.
Owning a rental property can be a rewarding investment, but it’s important to enter the process with eyes wide open. Whether you decide to manage the property yourself or hire a property manager, be prepared for the responsibilities that come with the role. Keep in mind the potential for late payments, the costs you might not have initially considered, and the time commitment required. If you’re ready to tackle those challenges, rental properties can offer steady income and long-term financial benefits.
If you’re considering a move or investment and require a trusted Real Estate Broker, we’re here to assist you. Contact us via email at TEAM@McDanielCallahan.com, complete the form below, or give us a call at 925-838-4300. We are ready to provide expert guidance and support for all your real estate needs. Terry McDaniel DRE License #00941526








