Staring at your Santa Cruz, CA rental property and wondering how you'll keep it all in order? Property maintenance is the key to maximizing your space's income potential, but it can be more than a little daunting.
When you have a plan in place, it's easier to tackle each step. Organizing your to-do list into manageable activities allows you to move past that initial overwhelm and define concrete goals.
Today, we're sharing a quick guide to help you get started!
Step 1: Make a Maintenance Plan
Our first tip: Don't keep everything in your head. Create a written schedule that details all of the various components you need to check around the property, from your HVAC system to the plumbing. In addition to maintaining major appliances, think about how you'll keep surfaces clean.
Then, make a checklist that breaks down how often you should inspect each of those components.
For instance, while you may only need a plumber a few times a year, you'll need a cleaning crew on a more regular basis, especially if you're investing in a short-term rental. Create a simple system for organizing and managing maintenance records, so you'll always know what's been done and what lies ahead.
Step 2: Find Contractors
Once you know what needs to be done, it's time to find people who can do it. One of the first professionals to hire is an inspector, who can assess the property for major issues, such as structural damage and fire hazards.
From there, focus on local experts you can call at a moment's notice. If you need an emergency pipe repair, paint touch-up, or roof inspection, you need reputable, well-reviewed teams on speed dial. Gather referrals, ask around, and conduct interviews before adding anyone to your list.
Step 3: Fine-Tune the Exterior
Finally, turn your focus to the outside. While it's tempting to go overboard with installations and rejuvenations, keep most landscaping tasks minimal. Clean up clutter and overgrowth, and invest in plants that are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant.
This is also the time to walk around the property and take note of anything you'd like to replace or update. From loose shingles to dislodged siding, you might notice a few issues that need your attention.
Step 4: Update Cohesively
As you make repairs and updates, try to keep the overall aesthetic cohesive.
While it might not be super exciting to use builder-grade paint colors and hardware, it keeps your rental property looking neat and uniform. In addition, it also helps it appeal to a wider number of qualified tenants.
Expert Property Maintenance Services
Does the idea of tackling all of these steps on your own sound overwhelming? If so, it's time to hire a professional property maintenance company!
With the right team in place, you can rest assured that every aspect of your rental property will be taken care of for you. That's exactly what you'll find at PMI Santa Cruz. From marketing and tenant screening to repairs and evictions, we do it all.
Contact us today for a consultation!
