Evernest Property Management Blogs

Over the past several years, the real estate landscape has changed dramatically. A flood of discounted properties has entered the market, creating a very attractive opportunity for investors to purchase below market value. While many people initially jumped at the chance to flip these properties, a growing number have pivoted to long-term strategies, turning those homes into rental properties.

Over the past several years, the real estate landscape has changed dramatically. A flood of discounted properties has entered the market, creating a very attractive opportunity for investors to purchase below market value. While many people initially jumped at the chance to flip these properties, a growing number have pivoted to long-term strategies, turning those homes into rental properties.

Like any housing decision, renting from private landlords presents both pros and cons. Lower rent, more flexible lease terms, and the opportunity for direct owner communication are just a few of the reasons many residents seek out this type of arrangement. But with those benefits come a few risks. Unlike professionally managed rentals, properties owned by private landlords, or individuals who own and manage their rental properties without the help of a professional property manager, don’t always come with the same checks and balances. That means it’s up to you, the resident, to take extra care when choosing your next home. While many private landlords are responsible, fair, and a pleasure to rent from, others may be inexperienced or even negligent in their responsibilities. So, how can you tell the difference? Start by learning the red flags. In this article, we’ll discuss what to watch out for — and some bonus tips on how to find private landlords you can trust.

Rent-to-own agreements can offer residents an appealing pathway to homeownership while providing landlords with a reliable income stream and a potential sale down the line. But what happens when things don’t go as planned? Specifically, can a landlord break a rent-to-own contract? That question brings up a range of legal and practical considerations that both parties, landlords and residents, need to understand before entering or exiting such an agreement.

In this article, we’ll walk through how rent-to-own contracts work, when and how they can be legally terminated, and what protections and responsibilities exist on both sides of the deal. Let’s get started!

It’s the first of the month, and your rent payment hasn’t arrived. A few days go by, and still nothing. Now you’re asking yourself: “My resident is late with rent — what should I do?” If you’re a landlord or rental property owner, this scenario can happen at any time. While it is one of the most stressful situations you may encounter, before jumping to conclusions, it’s important to assess the situation. Ask yourself, is this a one-time issue with an otherwise reliable resident? Or does it demonstrate a pattern that could cost you time, money, and peace of mind? With this article, we aim to help you tell the difference between a good late payer and a bad late payer, and offer actionable steps to take when rent doesn’t arrive on time.

If you’re a landlord or rental property owner, this scenario can happen at any time. While it is one of the most stressful situations you may encounter, before jumping to conclusions, it’s important to assess the situation. Ask yourself, is this a one-time issue with an otherwise reliable resident? Or does it demonstrate a pattern that could cost you time, money, and peace of mind?

Tips for renting a house aren’t always obvious, especially if you’re navigating the process for the first time. But from the lease agreement to maintenance responsibilities, understanding the ins and outs of renting can make your life a whole lot easier. Luckily, we’ve helped thousands of tenants all across the nation successfully rent their dream homes! Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned resident, our top tips for renting a house will help you avoid common headaches, maintain a great relationship with your landlord or property manager, and make your rental truly feel like home. Let’s dive in!

Life doesn’t always go according to plan — and sometimes, that’s a good thing! Whether you’re relocating for work, moving in with a partner, or simply not ready to sell your current home, renting it out can be a smart financial move. Many homeowners choose this route to generate passive income, hold onto a property they expect to appreciate, or keep the door open for a future return. But while being a landlord has its rewards, it also comes with a fair share of responsibilities. If you're asking yourself, "How do I rent out my house," this guide will walk you through every step. We’ll cover everything from deciding whether renting is right for you to preparing the property, understanding your legal obligations, finding great residents, and maintaining the home over time. Let’s dive in!

As a property management company in more than 50 markets across the nation, we hear one question again and again: “What do you do to screen a resident? ”Resident screening, the process owners and property managers use to evaluate and filter applicants, is one of the most valuable tools for finding ideal residents for a rental property. Basically, the method your property manager chooses for screening can make the difference between residents who are simply “okay” and those who treat the property with care, pay rent on time, and meet your expectations. By establishing clear and effective screening criteria, we can not only attract the right individuals but also reduce risk to your investment. In this article, we’ll walk through the four key areas we consider throughout our screening process: income, rental background checks, references, and compliance with federal Fair Housing laws.