Today is the 29th of February – Leap Year. I always heard it was the one day where a woman could ask a man to marry her. In the past women got married because the man had something to offer – good job, income, a home, stability, would be a good father etc. Well, did you know the largest percentage of home buyers are single women? Yep! Many women are delaying marriage for school, career etc and are realizing that maybe they are going to have to take care of themselves so the next step is purchasing a home or investment property.
So once escrow closes then what? Educate yourself about basic handyman work and do it yourself. It really isn’t difficult. If the job is larger or you just don’t want to get your hands dirty get bids for the work, make sure the vendor is licensed. I ask as a favor, please do not get a “friend” to do your work unless they are a licensed contractor or vendor in the area of the job that needs to be done.
As a property manager I can’t tell you how often something goes wrong with the rental – there will always be maintenance so get use to it. When I try to get the name of the vendor that did the work I am often told it was a friend. Half the time the friend didn’t know what they were doing and you end up paying twice for the job. Treat your rental as a business and you will be a-ok. All this info applies if you are living in the property you bought. Use licensed vendors, get references, look at other jobs they have done (drive by house they painted) etc. Get a written bid and take photos.
For other info about how to do it yourself check out Tips and Tricks on the blog. If you are looking for property management services or a great place to rent in Santa Cruz County check out our website: www.PortolaRentals.com
Kathleen
