Top 5 Mistakes Landlords Make and How to Avoid Them

Managing rental properties can be both rewarding and challenging. However, even experienced landlords can fall into common pitfalls that affect their bottom line and tenant relationships. At Red Herron Property Management, we’ve seen it all—and we’re here to help landlords avoid these costly mistakes. Here are the top five mistakes landlords make and how to prevent them:

1. Inadequate Tenant Screening

One of the biggest mistakes landlords make is failing to properly screen tenants. Accepting a tenant without verifying their background, income, or rental history can lead to late payments, property damage, or eviction proceedings.

How to Avoid It: Red Herron Property Management uses a rigorous tenant screening process that evaluates credit history, rental history, employment verification, and more. This ensures you’re leasing to responsible tenants who will care for your property and pay rent on time.

2. Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Delaying or ignoring property maintenance can result in expensive repairs and unhappy tenants. Small issues, like a leaky faucet or a clogged gutter, can escalate into major problems if left unaddressed.

How to Avoid It: Partner with Red Herron Property Management to stay on top of preventative maintenance. We coordinate regular inspections, handle repair requests promptly, and work with trusted contractors to keep your property in excellent condition.

3. Improper Handling of Legal Requirements

Landlords must comply with numerous legal requirements, including fair housing laws, security deposit regulations, and eviction procedures. A single misstep can result in costly legal disputes.

How to Avoid It: Red Herron Property Management stays up-to-date on all federal, state, and local laws. We handle lease agreements, tenant notices, and eviction processes in full compliance with legal standards, protecting you from potential lawsuits.

4. Overpricing or Underpricing Rent

Setting the wrong rental price can either deter prospective tenants or leave money on the table. Many landlords struggle to determine a competitive yet profitable rent amount.

How to Avoid It: Red Herron Property Management conducts detailed market analyses to determine the optimal rental rate for your property. We balance competitive pricing with maximizing your return on investment, ensuring your property stays occupied and profitable.

5. Poor Communication with Tenants

Failing to maintain clear and professional communication with tenants can lead to misunderstandings, disputes, and tenant turnover. Responding slowly to tenant concerns can also damage your reputation as a landlord.

How to Avoid It: Red Herron Property Management acts as the primary point of contact for your tenants. We handle all tenant communications, from maintenance requests to lease renewals, ensuring timely and professional responses that foster positive tenant relationships.

Final Thoughts

Avoiding these common mistakes is essential to running a successful rental property business. By partnering with Red Herron Property Management, you can eliminate the stress of property management and focus on growing your investment portfolio. Our team of experts is here to help you every step of the way—from tenant screening to maintenance and legal compliance.

Contact Red Herron Property Management today to learn how we can help you avoid these pitfalls and achieve success as a landlord.