One of the hardest parts about being a landlord is dealing with all the different people and personalities. It can be difficult to get your job done as a landlord if you and your tenants have a poor relationship that lacks communication and respect. If you’re looking to make life as a landlord a little easier on yourself, here’s how to build a healthy relationship with your tenants.
Start on the Right Foot
You may not always be able to build a better relationship with a current tenant, but as tenants come and go, you can work on building that trusting relationship when they walk through the door. There are many ways to welcome a tenant, like offering a coupon book to local restaurants and activities or offering to show them around the area if they’re new. They don’t necessarily have to accept, but the act of being offered alone will be the foundation of a healthy landlord and tenant relationship.
Use Open and Honest Communication
Open and honest communication is the main thing tenants look for in a landlord. If you can’t get something fixed on time, if an aspect of their contract is changing, or an issue arises, most people are understanding and will try to work through the situation if you approach them in a polite and timely manner. However, if you try hiding and covering up issues, tenants may not be so welcoming. Communication is key to any relationship, and professional relationships are no exception.
Practice Patience
Unfortunately, no matter how hard you try, there will always be people who don’t like you or are just rude. This is the best time to practice the valued virtue of patience. It may be tempting to give a rude tenant a taste of their own medicine, but oftentimes, that will make the situation worse for you in the long run. Most people, even the ones who don’t like you, will appreciate the patience and be more willing to give it to you in return.
Set Clear Boundaries and Expectations
Setting clear boundaries and expectations lies in the same vein as open communication. However, being clear about what you expect from a renter as a tenant in terms of responsibilities and respect is critical for maintaining a healthy relationship and your personal peace. In addition, letting them know your boundaries, such as not answering the phone after a particular hour or how you expect to be treated, can save you from unnecessary headaches.
Now that you know the foundational aspects of building a healthy relationship with your tenants, you can make sure that your life as a landlord goes a little smoother.
