OWNER FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
My wife and I are out of state investors with a portfolio of seven properties (6 duplex, 1 sfr) We have been with ODPM for three years now and in that time they have helped us with every phase of real estate: buying, selling, rehabing, etc... Now, during a pandemic, we are at almost 100% occupancy. ODPM has helped our tenents with getting rent relief, helping both tenents and us (property owners). They are an all-around great property management team and I highly recommend them! Special thanks to Ashia, Eric, and Larry!
How long does it take for you to start managing my property?
We will be ready within the first 24 hours after signing the contract and all onboarding documents are submitted.
How long does it take to find tenants?
Our goal is to find qualified tenants in a prompt and timely manner. In order to achieve this goal we use a variety of marketing strategies. Our reputation and longevity in the business gives us a distinct advantage in locating qualified tenants in a timely manner.
How do application fees work?
We use this fee to process reports necessary to screen the applicants completely.
What is the process of determining my property's rent?
We use practical tools, neighborhood comps and result-oriented strategies to determine the proper rent. Among other practices, we conduct deep research and market comparisons. All the gathered knowledge allows us to create highly competitive rent prices.
How do you collect the rent?
We have different payment methods: mail, office delivery, or online payments.
I prefer direct deposits. Is it possible?
Yes, we can agree to make direct deposits to your preferred bank account.
Do you screen tenants?
Yes, we screen all the prospective tenants. Our 3- tier screening process covers a variety of tests. These include criminal history, credit checks, rental and employment verification. The tests have been chosen to lower the risk of admitting problematic tenants.
Can I keep my current insurance?
Please check with your insurer to make sure that you keep the coverage. Before starting to manage, we need to see proof of your insurance. Your insurance won’t cover the tenants’ personal belongings. That’s why all our renters need to have adequate renters’ insurance. This greatly helps to solve emergency issues.
What does my tenant have to do before they move-in?
First, your tenant needs to successfully get through the screening process. When that goes well, they are obligated to pay the full security deposit. Also, they will get an appointment to sign the lease agreement. They need to read through the legal document and agree with all the terms.
Sometimes there are extra fees involved. In this case, they need to settle all of these things when signing the agreement.
How will my tenant be cleared from their lease?
When your tenant moves out, we inspect the property’s condition thoroughly. They will get the approval along with the returned security deposit. That holds only true if there are no damages found.
What kind of inspections do you conduct?
We conduct move in and move out inspections. We also have informal inspections that are a part of our system that the property is inspected without expense to the owner. For example during showings, maintenance request, lawn care maintenance.
How are utilities organized?
Some types of utilities could be owner expense due to the unit being in a multi-family property. For example, water and sewer that has one meter for multiple units.
What if my tenant doesn't pay rent on time?
Our lease agreements contain strict rules about rent payment delays and failures. Tenants have to quickly pay the late fees after receiving the notice. Continuing payment default results in eviction.
What is your property damage policy?
If the repairs are over $250 we get your permission to make the repairs, unless its an emergency. Otherwise we se our professional and
licensed partners to and complete the repairs necessary. We work extremly hard to keep repair cost low and effective for the owner.
Which reports can I access?
You are able to access a multitude of reports when you use our owner portal. These reports include regular statements for income and expenses.
Is it a good idea to welcome pets or smokers?
Allowing pets and smokers isn’t something you would be obligated to do. When it comes to pets, you should keep in mind that being too strict could cost you a considerable amount of prospects.
We forbid smoking in all the rental properties. If we find evidence of smoking, then the tenants have to pay for any relevant damages.
Does hiring a property manager lead to loss of all control?
No, property management means that you can still have a say in every decision that is made. Also, you can choose the level of how much you want to be involved in smaller-scale choices.