Blog

Tag: <span>Charleston Property Company</span>
No Comments

Top 4 Rental Features That Attract Tenants | Property Management Company In Charleston

Author: MediaBeast
Categories: Property management companies in Charleston,Rental Property Management in Charleston
property management company in Charleston

Key Takeaways:

  • Before putting up your house for rent in Charleston, ensure it meets potential tenants’ requirements.
  • By installing features that make your rental property more attractive, you can earn higher rent and attract better tenants.
  • Provide ample storage space, equip your kitchen with functional appliances, upgrade fixtures, and allow plenty of natural light to enter the property.
  • A professional and experienced property management company in Charleston can help you get the best returns on your investments and ensure that all aspects of your rental are taken care of.
  • Scott Properties Charleston is a trusted name in property management, offering quality services at competitive prices.
  • We understand the local rental market and work closely with our clients to ensure reliable tenants occupy their rentals and provide them with the maximum rental income potential.

 

A professional property management company in Charleston, SC, knows how important it is for property owners to maximize their rental property’s profitability. And what better way to do that than by ensuring your house for rent in Charleston stands out above the rest?

Whether you’re a property owner or investor-landlord, you can use various features to ensure your rental meets the needs of today’s tenants. While some of these features come with a cost, they can certainly be worth the extra expense in attracting more tenants and increasing your rental’s ROI. It will also help you keep your tenants happy and reduce turnover rates.

If you need help managing your property, Scott Properties Charleston is here to help! We are an experienced property management company in Charleston and understand the ins and outs of the rental market. Our team knows what tenants are looking for and can help you provide the features they need to make your rental more attractive. Our services include tenant screening, rent collection, marketing, maintenance and repair, property inspections, and more. We also provide an online property management tool to make managing your rental easy.

Whether you own just one rental unit or multiple rentals, our property management company in Charleston can help you get the best returns on your investments and ensure that your rental is taken care of.

Let’s look at the top four features that can make your rental property more attractive and increase its value to potential tenants.

1. Ample Storage Space | Property Management Company In Charleston

A house for rent offering plenty of storage space will always be desirable for tenants over a cramped apartment. Storage space can range from attics and basements to closets and cabinets. Adding extra shelving or storage compartments in the bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen can also be a great way to increase the value of your rental property and keep tenants happy.

Suppose you cannot afford to add additional storage space to your property. In that case, you can always maximize existing space by providing organizational solutions like wall-mounted shelves and racks. It will allow your tenants to maximize their storage space without taking away from the house’s aesthetics. You can also provide organizational bins and baskets for items like towels, linens, and toiletries that can help make life easier for your tenants.

2. Good Natural Light

Imagine living in a house with insufficient natural light. It would be pretty depressing! If your rental property does not have enough windows to let in plenty of natural light, it is advisable to install extra windows or skylights.

Natural light has many health benefits and can help your tenants feel energized and happy. Furthermore, tenants will appreciate saving electricity bills by relying on natural light. And if you are worried about privacy, consider installing frosted or tinted windows to keep the interiors of your rental property private while still bringing in plenty of natural light.

Finally, make sure to keep the windows clean and in good condition. If tenants can’t open or close the windows, they may not use natural light.

A property management company will inspect and maintain all the windows to keep them functioning properly. If repairs are needed, they will be taken care of promptly so your tenants can enjoy the benefits of plenty of natural light.

3. Well-Equipped Kitchen

A functional kitchen with modern appliances and plenty of counter space attracts most tenants when searching for a house for rent. If your kitchen is old, outdated, and inefficient, chances are high that it won’t attract the right tenants.

What you can do:

Install new appliances, such as a refrigerator and stove. Ensure your kitchen has all the necessary utensils, dishes, pots, and pans. Address plumbing issues and replace any broken or outdated cabinets.

Make sure that your kitchen has plenty of counter space and lighting fixtures to make it easier for tenants to work in the kitchen. Invest in furniture items, such as a kitchen table and chairs, to make it more inviting. Finally, paint your kitchen in a warm, inviting color to make it more attractive.

If repairs or replacements are still required even after upgrades, your property management company can help you ensure that your kitchen is up to code and in top condition for your tenants.

4. Upgraded Fixtures | Property Management Company In Charleston

Fixtures can make a house look beautiful and well put together. Invest in high-end fixtures such as faucets, knobs, and cabinet hardware. It will add a touch of elegance to your kitchen while also providing a more modern look.

You can replace the bathroom showerhead, sink faucet, and toilet or install a new vanity and mirror. Make sure your new fixtures complement the existing decor and color scheme.

Additionally, updating the light fixtures or additional lighting in darker areas of the room can make an impact. Your tenants will appreciate the modern touches and comfortable feel these upgrades provide. These renovations can help your rental property stand out and attract prospective tenants.

To avoid tackling these projects, consider hiring a property management company in Charleston to look after your rental property. They will ensure every detail is taken care of and the finished work is of the highest quality.

Let the Top Property Management Company in Charleston Manage Your Rentals

Scott Properties Charleston specializes in property management for residential properties. We have extensive experience in the local rental market and offer comprehensive services to help maximize your rental income. Our property managers are knowledgeable, friendly, and always available to answer your questions.

Our services include tenant screening and selection, rent collection and bookkeeping, maintenance planning and scheduling, responding to tenant inquiries and requests, and more. We understand the importance of keeping tenants happy and satisfied and ensuring your property is being cared for and well-maintained. Our experts will give you peace of mind that your rental property is managed professionally and efficiently.

Contact us to get your house for rent in Charleston listed on the market today!

No Comments

Why Renters’ Insurance Must Be Mandatory

Author: MediaBeast
Categories: Charleston Property Management Companies
10 Orrs

One way to start building wealth and having a stream of residual income is to rent your home in Charleston. Housing is an ever present and growing need in Charleston and all over South Carolina. Property owners and investors have a great chance to increase their profits while also providing a vital service for residents. It’s imperative to protect your investment and keep properties in great condition to get the best return. One of the best ways to protect your investment is requiring tenants to have renters’ insurance.

Why Renters’ Insurance is Important | Property Management in Charleston

When you rent your home in Charleston, it can be nerve-racking to put your trust in tenants to keep your property maintained. Your property insurance will cover major disasters, but won’t cover your tenants’ belongings. Tenants often believe that the investor’s insurance will cover their belongings, but this is a myth that often leaves renters and landlords in a terrible predicament. While renters’ insurance isn’t required by law in South Carolina, it can still be added as mandatory in the lease agreement.

If you rent your home in Charleston, your insurance policy will cover structural damages to property, liability if renters make claims against you, rental income losses, and sometimes the investor’s property such as appliances being provided in the home. 

Tenants with renters’ insurance are less likely to have conflict when damages occur due to fire, flooding, break-in, or other circumstances that could result in a loss of property. Renters’ insurance can also cover damages from pets the renter may have in the home. With renters’ insurance, both the tenant and the investor can be protected. 

Before you let the tenant sign the lease, make sure to get a copy of their renters’ insurance policy. You should also ask for a new copy of the renters’ insurance policy during every lease renewal. Partnering with a property manager can help make the leasing process and all the administrative tasks go smoother. 

If you need property management services in Charleston, give Scott Properties of Charleston a call at 843-790-4929

No Comments

South Carolina Security Deposit Rules | Property Management Company Charleston

Author: MediaBeast
Categories: Property Management
Property Management Company Charleston

Security deposits are one thing that every property management company in Charleston has in common. A security deposit is money that a tenant must give in advance of renting that is held by the landlord or property manager until move out. When a tenant moves out, any damages to the property or violations can be deducted from the security deposit. However, there are a lot of rules regarding how these deposits can be handled, stored, and dispersed that investors need to know about. 

Security Deposit Rules for Investors 

Investors in South Carolina can require security deposits on their properties to cover damages that go above and beyond normal wear and tear as well as unpaid rent. 

There are no minimums or maximums on the amount a property management company in Charleston can charge for rent; however, most investors and managers choose to equate the deposit to one month of rent. 

Security deposits must be returned within 30 days of the renter vacating the property. A written statement must be included that itemizes any deductions made to the deposit, and any money still owed that was not covered by the deposit.

Best Practices for Security Deposits

Upon move-in, ask tenants to report any damages to their home within 48 hours of taking possession. Move-in inspection sheets are easy to use for these purposes and can be kept in the lease file to compare when the tenant vacates the property. Similarly, conduct a move-out inspection with the tenant when they return the keys. This way, the property manager and tenant are on the same page with the condition the home is being vacated in. All damages listed on move-in or move-out forms should be documented with photos as well. 

Sometimes, there will be disagreements between the property management company in Charleston and the tenants on the amount that should be returned from the security deposit. Keeping diligent records of all damages, lease violations, and communications with the tenant will be key if legal proceedings need to happen. Luckily, investors can rely on professional property managers to handle these things. 

If you need property management services in Charleston, give Scott Properties of Charleston a call at 843-790-4929

No Comments

Avoid These Property Investment Mistakes | Property Management Company

Author: MediaBeast
Categories: charleston property management,Property management companies in Charleston
charleston property management company

Purchasing rental property is a great way to build wealth that can maximize your profits for generations. Housing will always be needed so the investment is likely to be a good one. However, investors who are new to rental homes can easily fall into a few pitfalls that can set them back on their investments. A good property management company in Charleston can help you avoid some of the most common mistakes investors make, but knowing them ahead of time can save you a lot of money and hassle. 

Most Common Mistakes Investors Make

  1. Violating Housing and Building Codes: When you invest in real estate, it is imperative to know the ins and outs of building and housing codes. When homes are not compliant with building and housing codes or ordinances, fines can be issued. Homes can also be deemed uninhabitable with renters being displaced which can cause legal troubles for an investor and property management company in Charleston.
  2. Charging the Wrong Rent: Some investors price rent too high while others go way too low. The rental market in Charleston is huge, and market rent can quickly fluctuate. Working with a property management company in Charleston can help investors charge a rent amount that turns a profit and keeps residents releasing. 
  3. Underestimating Costs: When choosing a property to invest in, you must consider additional costs to have a home ready to rent. Many first time investors purchase fixer-uppers with the intentions of renting or selling with a huge profit, but underestimate the repair costs. Investing too much money upfront makes the time to become profitable much longer.

There are many nuances to investing, portfolio building, and providing quality housing for tenants. Once you’re ready to start moving tenants in, a property management company in Charleston can step in to get your profits rolling. Property managers will take over the day-to-day operations of your rental including leasing, communicating with tenants, and scheduling maintenance. Don’t let the do-it-yourself mindset stand in the way of operating an efficient rental company, hire property management today!

If you need property management services in Charleston, give Scott Properties of Charleston a call at 843-790-4929

No Comments

Charleston Top Rental Market Post-Covid | Property Management Company

Author: MediaBeast
Categories: Property Management
charleston property management company

According to the National Association of Realtors, Charleston is one of the top rental markets in a post-Covid world. Charleston was already a fast-growing community before the Covid-19 pandemic because of its reputation for being an affordable alternative to big-city prices and lifestyle. Job growth has been consistent and the local government has focused on economic diversity and expansion which makes the community attractive to investors who want to work with property management companies in Charleston to expand their portfolios. 

Why Buy A Rental Home In Charleston 

Investors who want to get into rental property should buy property in Charleston as soon as possible. Home values are rising every year by as much as 14% with the average single-family home selling for $363,700 according to the Charleston Trident Association of Realtors. The Charleston Regional Business Journal also projected that the housing market in Charleston will continue to remain in the top 10 for the next several years. 

One of the factors driving prices up in Charleston is the shortage of properties available. The Inventory of homes for sale has decreased by nearly 50% as more people decide to stay put in Charleston. Property management companies in Charleston SC are having success in keeping tenants in properties long term as well as filling vacant properties quicker than ever. 

Charleston has over 60 neighborhoods with homes of varying prices and diverse demographics where investors will find a high demand for rental homes. Currently there are an additional 7,500 homes needed to keep pace with population growth, so if investors can purchase a home in Charleston, the risk of not being able to find a high-quality renter is almost non-existent.

If you are interested in Scott Properties managing your rental properties, call us today at 843-790-4929.

No Comments

When Carpet Cleaning be Scheduled for Rentals? | Property Management Company

Author: MediaBeast
Categories: charleston property management,Charleston Property Management Companies
461 Truman

One of the things that never ends for property management companies in Charleston SC is the supply of maintenance requests from tenants of rental properties. Keeping homes in good condition is a big job, especially when you get the occasional tenant who has little regard for the property. 

Property management companies in Charleston SC make owning rental property easy because they handle all the day-to-day tenant calls for maintenance and other issues. Not only that, but a property manager can inspect the rental, schedule updates, and make sure the property is made good as new between tenants. 

Carpet Cleaning Requests

Carpets are generally so torn up between tenants that it is best to replace the carpet before showing the rental home to new, potential renters. However, professional carpet cleaning is one of the most frequently asked for maintenance requests. Some property management companies in Charleston SC offer a free, professional carpet cleaning once per year when tenants renew their lease. Sometimes, property managers can schedule carpet cleanings on as needed basis for tenants who request them. 

Sometimes, if a professional carpet cleaning service is not an option, maintenance technicians can use a carpet cleaning machine to complete a DIY cleaning for tenants. It is not uncommon for property management companies in Charleston SC to only schedule professional carpet cleaning when tenants move out if the carpet does not need to be replaced. Some property managers will extend carpet cleaning to encourage tenant retention, but a rental company will work with the property owner to create a plan that works for everyone. 

Fees for carpet cleaning are usually applied to the deposit if carpets are soiled and stained after the tenant moves out. Some property management leases require tenants to have the carpets cleaned as part of the moveout process with an inspection to verify. For best practices, ensure all leases outline procedures around carpet cleaning and other maintenance requests. 

If you are interested in Scott Properties managing your rental properties, call us today at 843-790-4929.

No Comments

Steps to Take Before Renting Your Property | Property Management Companies in Charleston SC

Author: MediaBeast
Categories: Charleston Property Management Companies,Property Management,Property Rental Companies in Charleston
Property Management Companies in Charleston SC

Many people want to get into rental property investing to earn extra income while they are retired, spend time on other businesses, or keep increasing their assets. However, sometimes people become landlords by accident through inheritance or needing to move without selling the property they already own. However, having an empty home doesn’t mean it is ready to be put on the market for rent. Property management companies in Charleston SC have been able to assist hundreds of owners in getting their properties rent-ready. 

How to Get Rent Ready

There are many different steps to getting a property ready to rent to tenants:

  • Building Code Inspection:

    A property owner should ensure the rental home is up to code and can pass any inspection that would be needed in order to pass for a sale. Properties should be safe before renters move in and safe, up-to-date properties will require less maintenance in the long run. 

  • Renovations and Updates:

    Addressing any code violations and making renovations that will make the home modern and more up-to-date will not only help you rent faster but also be more competitive at the top of the market rent price.

  • Landscaping:

    Muddy yards, dead trees, and broken sidewalks could turn potential renters away. Investing in professional landscaping and lawn care will make your properties stand out and increase curb appeal which will also allow you to be competitive on the rental price. 

  • Property Management Companies Team:

    Before tenants move in, you should be ready to address all facets of being a landlord including rent collection, lease enforcement, maintenance requests, and more. Property management companies in Charleston SC can be great partners in making sure all of your list is checked off before you take the next step. When you work with a property management team, you also have all the professionals you need under one roof including maintenance! 

Getting your rental property ready for tenants to move can be overwhelming, especially if it’s the first time you are renting to someone. Let a property management company like Scott Properties help you get on the right footing so your investments will have the maximum return. 

Contact Scott properties today at 843-790-4929

No Comments

Charleston Property Management Companies | Why Charleston is Where You Need to Invest

Author: Scott Wallace
Categories: Charleston Property Management Companies
Charleston Property Management Companies

It is a seller’s market in many cities around the United States and in Charleston the real estate market reflects the same! Houses are going on the market and right back off seemingly overnight with investors sweeping in to turn single-family homes and duplexes into investment rental properties. In fact, the Charleston housing market is expecting to be booming for the next ten years and be in the top ten cities in the country for 2021. This trend is making Charleston property management companies busier than ever with investors needing professional rental management after the close of the sale.

What Does a Seller’s Market Mean for Investors?

For investors, this means they may have to pay more for a property than they normally would because, in a seller’s market, it is the person selling the property that has the most power. Homeowners are getting multiple offers on their properties due to a shortage of homes being sold. However, COVID 19 has caused many people who once owned a home to need a rental property instead which is great for investors. This situation means that market rental rates will increase and offset the increased price you might have to pay for an investment property.

Link With Charleston Property Management Companies

If you are an investor and hearing that you will have to pay more for a property is making you nervous, hear us out. Charleston property management companies are thriving and successful in Charleston because the population boom happening in Charleston is creating a thriving tech industry with high-paying jobs and lots of entrepreneurs and venture capitalists setting down roots along the coast. These renters can afford to pay more for rent and will gladly pay premium prices to be near the ocean and their office. Charleston property management companies can also verify that the median household income of a Charleston family has increased by more than six percent and the GDP has increased by almost 75%. Now is the perfect time to get into Charleston rental property investing.

If you are looking for someone to help manage your rental properties in Charleston, call us today at Scott Properties, 843-790-4929.

No Comments

Charleston Property Company | How to Create A Successful Online Rental Ad

Author: Scott Wallace
Categories: charleston property management,Scott Properties
Charleston Property Company

Few people use the newspaper to find rental properties, which have made the classified ads obsolete for any Charleston property company. Instead, nearly every person looking for a rental in Charleston is going to look online to find the perfect home.  In a market as competitive as Charleston, property managers must make advertising and marketing online a priority.

5 Steps for Listing A Rental Property Online

There are five basic steps to creating a successful online rental ad that will get your property rented quickly to the perfect tenants.

  1. Choose Your Platform- There are several online platforms where rental homes are advertised. The best Charleston property management company will post across several, including Zillow, rent.com, Trulia, Relator.com, DoorSteps, Craigslist, and others.
  2. Click Worthy Title- The title of your advertisement is what makes them click. Be sure to include the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, as well as the neighborhood in your title.
  3. Detailed Description- There is nothing worse than tenants viewing a property only to find out it lacks what they need. Make sure your descriptions are detailed with pet policy, deposit, rent, and fees. It would help if you also mentioned neighborhood highlights and amenities, school district, and date available.
  4. List Tenant Requirements- Taking time to show prospective tenants around to discover they aren’t going to qualify is a waste of time. Make sure tenants know the application requirements before the showing by listing in the ad.
  5. Photos: The best Charleston property company understands that pictures are worth 1000 words. Make sure you include clear photos taken while the home was clean and well-lit. If you can, stage the rental home with furniture and artwork for your marketing photos, this will help tenants envision themselves there.

Following these steps will help ensure potential renters see your advertisements. If you need a Charleston property company to help you manage your single-family rental home marketing, call Scott Properties of Charleston at 843-790-4929.

No Comments

Charleston Property Company | Top Features of a Successful Rental Property

Author: Scott Wallace
Categories: Property Rental Companies in Charleston,Scott Properties
charleston property company

When you are investing in rental properties or starting a Charleston property company, you’re most concerned with how to have the most successful rental property possible. How can you make sure your property is always rented out and taken great care of so that you make the most profits? These are the number one thing you are thinking about when making a purchasing decision on a home.

Once you start shopping, make sure that the rental properties you are interested in have these top features and you’ll be set up for success.

  1. Great Neighborhood- The most successful rental properties are found in the best Charleston neighborhoods where the standard of living is high, but the cost of living is lower. If you plan to rent to students, make sure you are near campuses. If you plan to market to families, make sure you are in the best school district. If you want to rent to young professionals, make sure you are near the business district or downtown.
  2. Crime- Invest in homes where the crime rate is low. You’ll get the best rental value and have an easier time selling for a great price if you ever offload your portfolio.
  3. Amenities in the Neighborhood- Charleston neighborhoods are exceptionally large, so when starting your Charleston property company, you should look for homes where there are great amenities within walking distance such as parks, gas stations, grocery stores, entertainment and more if you are trying to attract families. Depending on your target demographics, the amenities might change, but these amenities will attract the right tenants.
  4. Average Rent- A Charleston property company will do a lot of market research into the average rental rates of a neighborhood to ensure they will make the best return on investment when comparing the monthly mortgage to the rent.

One trick to knowing if a neighborhood is worth investing in for rental property is to check out home many vacancies are currently in the area. Homes that sit empty for extended periods of time are indicators of an undesirable area.

If you’re ready to hand the reins of your Charleston property company to an experience property manager that can take your investment to the next level, call Scott Properties at 843-790-4929.