Short, practical guides and one-minute videos on Owning rentals without the headaches

Screen every tenant the same way

Most problems start with the wrong tenant. Write down your criteria before you list the property and apply them to every applicant, so your decisions are consistent and fair.

1. Written applicationCollect the same information from every adult who will live there.
2. Verify incomeConfirm employment and income with pay stubs or the employer.
3. Check rental historyCall previous landlords, not just the current one, and ask whether they would rent to this person again.
4. Credit and background checksUse a reputable screening service, with the applicant's written consent.
5. Follow fair housing rulesFederal, state and local fair housing laws apply in both Kansas and Missouri. Never screen on a protected characteristic.

Stay ahead of maintenance

• Do a move-in inspection with photos, signed by you and the tenant.
• Service the furnace and air conditioning before each season.
• Give tenants one clear way to report repairs, and respond quickly to anything urgent like water, heat or safety.
• Build a short list of trusted plumbers, electricians and handymen before you need them.
• Walk the property at least once a year, with proper notice to the tenant.

The numbers to watch monthly

1. Rent collected vs. rent dueCatch late payments early and follow your lease consistently.
2. Repair spendingTrack it by property so you notice a home that keeps costing more.
3. Reserve balanceTop it back up after any big repair.
4. Days vacantLong vacancies usually mean the price, condition or marketing needs attention.
5. Lease end datesStart renewal conversations well before a lease ends.

Know the rules where you own

Kansas and Missouri each have their own landlord-tenant laws covering things like deposits, notices and entry, and some cities add rental registration or inspection requirements. Rules change, so check the current requirements or talk to a local attorney before acting on a specific situation.