Owning a rental property can be a great investment, but small missteps can lead to longer vacancies, unpaid rent, or costly repairs. Some issues may seem minor at first but can have long-term effects on profitability.
Here are five common landlord mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Setting the Wrong Rental Price
The Problem:
Pricing too high can lead to months without a tenant, while pricing too low can reduce profits and attract unqualified applicants. According to Zillow, overpriced listings take 22% longer to lease.
The Solution:
✔ Research at least 5-10 similar properties in the area
✔ Adjust based on seasonal demand (spring and summer often allow for higher rent)
✔ Consider what amenities, utilities, and services are included
???? Need help with pricing? Cintra Realty provides rental market analysis to help determine the best rate for your property.
2. Skipping a Thorough Tenant Screening Process
The Problem:
A bad tenant can lead to late payments, property damage, or even eviction. Rushing to fill a vacancy without proper screening increases the risk of these problems.
The Solution:
✔ Contact previous landlords for rental history
✔ Run background checks to look for past evictions or serious legal issues
???? Cintra Realty handles tenant screening, background checks, and rental verification. Learn more about our tenant placement services.
3. Using a Weak Lease Agreement
The Problem:
A poorly written lease can lead to payment disputes, early move-outs, or legal issues. Without clear terms, a tenant may refuse to pay for damages, sublet without permission, or leave unexpectedly.
The Solution:
✔ Clearly outline rent due dates, late fees, and payment methods
✔ Specify who is responsible for maintenance costs (e.g., minor repairs under $100)
✔ Define rules on subletting, guests, and tenant responsibilities
✔ Follow Texas Property Code requirements for security deposits and lease termination
???? Cintra Realty drafts lease agreements that protect property owners. Get a customized lease for your rental.
4. Delaying Maintenance Requests
The Problem:
Tenants expect repairs to be handled in a timely manner. 57% of renters say slow response times affect their decision to renew a lease (National Multifamily Housing Council). Delayed repairs can also turn minor problems into expensive fixes.
The Solution:
✔ Respond to tenant maintenance requests quickly
✔ Perform regular inspections to catch issues early
✔ Work with trusted contractors for reliable service
???? Cintra Realty provides 24/7 maintenance support and an online work order system, allowing tenants to submit repair requests anytime. Let us handle maintenance for you.
5. Managing the Property Without Support
The Problem:
Many landlords think self-managing will save money but end up spending more time dealing with tenant issues, maintenance, and legal compliance than expected. 62% of landlords say handling tenant concerns is their biggest stressor (Avail Landlord Report).
The Solution:
✔ Work with a professional property management company to handle tenant placement, maintenance, and rent collection
✔ Use online rent payment systems to track payments and reduce late fees
✔ Stay informed on Texas rental laws to avoid legal risks
???? Cintra Realty takes care of tenant placement, 24/7 maintenance, rent collection, and more—so you can focus on growing your investment. See how our property management services can help.
Make Rental Property Ownership Easier with Cintra Realty
Managing a rental property comes with responsibilities, but there are ways to save time, reduce stress, and protect your investment. Cintra Realty provides full-service property management, including tenant screening, 24/7 maintenance, and online rent collection.
???? Contact us today for a free consultation and see how we can maximize your rental’s profitability.
