Leasing-only services refer to a specific type of property management service where a professional property management company or real estate agent handles all aspects of leasing a rental property, but does not manage the property after the lease is signed. This service is ideal for property owners who are comfortable managing the day-to-day operations but need assistance with finding and securing tenants. Here’s an overview of what leasing-only services typically include:
Components of Leasing-Only Services
Property Marketing
Listing Creation: Developing a compelling property listing with detailed descriptions and high-quality photos.
Advertising: Posting the listing on various rental websites, social media platforms, and other advertising channels to reach a wide audience.
Signage: Placing “For Rent” signs on the property to attract local interest.
Tenant Screening
Application Processing: Collecting and reviewing rental applications from prospective tenants.
Background Checks: Conducting thorough background checks, including credit history, criminal records, and eviction history.
Employment and Income Verification: Verifying the applicant’s employment status and income to ensure they can afford the rent.
Reference Checks: Contacting previous landlords and other references to assess the applicant's rental history and reliability.
Property Showings
Scheduling and Conducting Showings: Arranging and conducting property showings for prospective tenants.
Open Houses: Organizing open house events to allow multiple potential tenants to view the property simultaneously.
Lease Negotiation and Documentation
Lease Preparation: Drafting and preparing the lease agreement according to local laws and regulations.
Negotiation: Negotiating lease terms, such as rent amount, lease duration, and security deposits, with prospective tenants.
Signing: Facilitating the lease signing process and ensuring all necessary documents are properly executed.
Move-In Coordination
Property Inspection: Conducting a move-in inspection with the tenant to document the condition of the property.
Key Handover: Managing the process of handing over keys and any access codes to the new tenant.
Key Benefits of Leasing-Only Services
Expertise: Professional handling of the leasing process by experienced property managers or real estate agents.
Time Savings: Significant time savings for property owners, who do not have to deal with marketing, showings, and screening tenants.
Risk Reduction: Thorough screening of tenants reduces the risk of future issues with rent payment or property damage.
Legal Compliance: Assurance that the lease agreement and leasing process comply with all relevant laws and regulations.
How to Choose a Leasing-Only Service Provider
Reputation and Reviews: Look for providers with positive reviews and a strong reputation in the local real estate market.
Experience: Choose a provider with extensive experience in leasing properties similar to yours.
Range of Services: Ensure the provider offers comprehensive leasing services that cover all aspects of the leasing process.
Fees: Understand the fee structure, typically a percentage of the first month’s rent or a flat fee, and ensure it aligns with your budget.
Communication: Select a provider with good communication skills and a customer-centric approach.
Leasing-only services offer property owners the expertise and support needed to find and secure reliable tenants while allowing them to retain control over the ongoing management of their property.