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Preventive Maintenance Tips
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The Foundational Approach to Property Improvements

Author: cl@ss
Categories: Blog,Preventive Maintenance Tips,Property Management Tips,Real Estate Investment
A painter uses a sprayer to paint a balcony railing, image for the blog The Foundational Approach to Property Improvements.

You wouldn’t buy a property with a leaky roof just because it has fresh paint, and you need to determine your priorities for property improvements using the same approach. Prospective renters need safety first, then curb appeal and enhanced amenities and finishes.

If you invest in the long-term success of your property,  good renters will show their appreciation by renting and investing in your equity.

Building as a guide for rehab

When a building first goes up, everything starts with a stable foundation. Think of your capital investments the same way.

Safety and security are the number one concern of any human being. When you’re ready to invest in your property, inspect it for issues that could turn into safety hazards. Are there water intrusion concerns? You’ll have to replace rotten siding and structural components before even considering new kitchen counters.

Once your investment is safe for those who depend on its solid foundation and sturdy walls, it’s time to move on to amenities that will stand the test of time.

Keep property improvements neighborhood-appropriate

Renters expect an affluent downtown loft to look very different from housing in a middle-class residential neighborhood, and rents usually reflect those expectations. Keep property improvements in line with what the market will bear. For example, laminate countertops may be a better investment over granite materials. Or, on the other end, renters in your neighborhood may walk away from a property with carpet, preferring hardwood or laminate.

Improve your property structurally, make it safe and secure, and then make it attractive compared to what is available in the area. Foundational improvements improve a property’s value, not just its marketability. Base your rehab investments on what makes sense to tenants and the market, and back away from big-ticket expenses that won’t add value to your property’s bottom line.

Property improvements with Class A Management

If you are still determining what property improvements your property needs to attract your ideal tenant, call on Class A Management. We offer extensive development services that include remodels and upgrades. Call us today at 817-295-5959 or e-mail info@classamgmt.com.

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Only You Can Prevent Kitchen Fires

Author: cl@ss
Categories: Preventive Maintenance Tips
Only you can prevent kitchen fires

Kitchen fires account for 50 percent of all rental property fires each year. Tenants start cooking, get distracted, and unwittingly start dangerous and destructive fires. You can’t remove kitchens from your properties, but implementing preventive measures to minimize fire risk is essential to tenant safety and protecting your property.

Start a conversation

Practice excellent customer service to keep the lines of communication open and provide helpful tips to raise awareness and safety protocols, including the following:

  • Reminding residents to never leave anything cooking on the stove, even for a minute. 
  • Sharing the latest statistics, highlighting how unattended cooking is responsible for the most deaths. 
  • Asking for regular feedback on how cooking equipment works and sharing tips on cleaning and maintenance. 

Your safety conversation should include educating tenants on your property’s specific emergency plan and how tenants can protect their lives and possessions. 

Establish an emergency plan

Allow for human mistakes, and walk new tenants through what to do in case of kitchen fires. Provide a fire extinguisher, and teach them how to use it and when. Help residents report a fire and evacuate quickly by posting metal signs on every stairwell and each floor.

Provide incentives for renters’ insurance

Encourage tenants to purchase renters’ insurance (or make it mandatory) and provide some resources at lease signing. Consider offering a discount on rent for those with an active renters’ insurance policy. After a fire, if investigators determine that a tenant’s negligence started a fire, the tenant’s insurance will pick up the bill. Just make sure their policy covers fire due to negligence. It will be worth a small monthly discount in the long run.

Make fire prevention and response a significant part of your maintenance and tenant communication plans to prevent catastrophic damage and loss of life. Also, bring employees into the planning and training efforts to keep tenants and staff on the same page and ensure rapid response in an emergency.

Protect your property from kitchen fires by working with Class A Management

Property managers play a vital role in protecting your property investment. If you’re ready to have your property managed properly, contact the asset management experts at Class A Management. 

Our comprehensive management strategies include helping you develop safety procedures specific to your property. We also create local connections with insurance agents to provide the resources your tenants need to find affordable insurance. We will help you in every way to create an environment that prevents kitchen fires. 

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Carbon Monoxide and the Device That Could Save Renters’ Lives

Author: cl@ss
Categories: Preventive Maintenance Tips
Carbon Monoxide detector

As responsible landlords, it is our duty to prioritize the well-being and safety of our tenants. One crucial aspect of tenant safety that often goes overlooked is the presence of carbon monoxide in rental properties. In this article, we explore the significance of carbon monoxide monitoring and provide valuable insights into how landlords can protect their tenants from this silent, yet deadly threat.

Understanding Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can be emitted from various sources commonly found in homes. These sources can include gas appliances, heating systems, fireplaces, and even automobiles. Being aware of the potential dangers associated with carbon monoxide is the first step toward safeguarding your tenants’ lives.

The Risks Posed by Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide poisoning can have severe consequences, ranging from flu-like symptoms to unconsciousness and even death. Given that it is virtually impossible to detect without proper equipment, it is imperative that landlords take proactive measures to prevent exposure and protect their tenants.

Installing Carbon Monoxide Detectors

These devices are designed to alert occupants when carbon monoxide levels reach dangerous thresholds, allowing them to take immediate action and evacuate if necessary. Landlords should place detectors in strategic locations throughout the property, particularly near potential sources of carbon monoxide.

Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Maintaining a safe living environment goes beyond simply installing detectors. Regular maintenance and inspections of gas appliances, heating systems, chimneys, and ventilation systems are necessary. By scheduling periodic checks, landlords can identify and address potential issues promptly, reducing the risk of carbon monoxide leaks.

Educating Tenants on Carbon Monoxide Safety

While it is the responsibility of the landlord to provide a safe living environment, educating tenants about carbon monoxide safety is equally important. Consider sharing informational materials or hosting brief sessions to raise tenant awareness. Encourage them to report any unusual symptoms or concerns as soon as they are detected.

By prioritizing carbon monoxide monitoring and taking proactive steps to mitigate the risks, landlords can create a safer environment for tenants. Remember, protecting lives is our primary objective as responsible landlords. By addressing the threat of carbon monoxide, we can help ensure the well-being and peace of mind of everyone residing in our rental properties.

Need some help managing the day-to-day operations like this? Lean on our team of experts. Contact us today by calling 817-295-5959.

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Spring Cleaning Multifamily Property Management Style

Author: cl@ss
Categories: Preventive Maintenance Tips
Spring Cleaning Multifamily Property Management Style

When springtime rolls around, it motivates most people to do one thing: clean. Wintertime tends to leave a residue behind, begging for sunshine and a damp cloth. There’s just something about opening up all the windows, turning the music up, and purging all that we’ve hoarded during the months we had little more to do than hang out in front of the fire.

Spring is the perfect time to clean out the flower beds, attack new exterior projects (like that parking lot you’ve promised to repave), and host many more outdoor community events. Just as the physical multifamily property demands some extra attention during these months, so too does the back office, maybe even more than you might think.

How does spring cleaning apply to your back office? Focus on cleaning your property management office space, then zoom out to your overall business. Here are some big-picture ideas:

Make the hard decisions 

Your bottom line is affected most when it comes to trouble or troubled tenants. And, while there is always room for charity in this business, there comes a time when it’s okay to say, ‘Enough’s enough.’ Evaluate your tenants and be honest about the situation you’re in. Know the laws in your state and ensure it’s on your side, and then take action in those circumstances in which you’ve been reluctant. Now’s the time.

Reconsider your contracts 

It’s easy to become complacent and resistant to change when things seem comfy. Yet, this is also when you can pay more than necessary or fall victim to laziness and mistakes. Maintenance crews, plumbers, electricians, and other contractors can increase prices and lower quality. Spring is a great time to reevaluate your choices and confirm everyone is still giving you what you pay for.

Evaluate your positioning 

Where are your occupancy numbers, and where would you like them to be in the coming year? If they aren’t as high as you’d like, it’s time to look at your property positioning. Where do you advertise, and how do you promote? If you haven’t already, it’s time to get a website, get involved in social media, and start talking to your prospects and tenants through networks and blogging.

Class A Management can help with your spring cleaning

Want some help clearing out all the cobwebs? We’re here to assist. Our wide range of property management services can help you evaluate your current investments, suggest improvements, and implement changes based on your decisions. 

Contact the professionals at Class A Management today to get the advice and service your need so your spring cleaning gives your investment property the boost it needs to have a successful year. 

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Embrace the Season with a Spring Maintenance Checklist Video

Author: cl@ss
Categories: Preventive Maintenance Tips
Maintenance Checklist for Spring

Spring is upon us, and with the change in season comes general upkeep for your rental properties that just won’t wait another season. Safeguard your investment against damage from spring rains and snow melts, and boost your property’s curb appeal with seasonal landscaping that’s sure to keep your rental rates at the top of their income-growing potential.

Check out this video from Rentec Direct for a starter maintenance checklist you can work from as we enter the season of new growth, outdoor entertaining, and the best curb appeal opportunity of the year.

Let us help you get your maintenance checklist completed quickly and ensure your property has more than just standard curb appeal. Contact or call us at 817-295-5959, or send an email to info@classamgmt.com.

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