Q: How much is the monthly fee for managing my property?
A: You pay the amount agreed upon in the property management agreement (typically 4% to 8% of the rent collected or flat fee). There are no additional fees for our services. [Top]
Q: How long does it typically take for you to rent a property?
A: The average time for us to rent a property is approximately two to three weeks. We would rather take a couple extra days to find a highly qualified tenant than to rush the process with a lower caliber tenant. [Top]
Q: How soon should I expect to receive the monthly rent check?
A: Typically, you will receive your rent check no later than the 5th of each month. We can also deposit your check for you into a local bank, (i.e. B of A). The full amount of the rent will be deposited into your account. [Top]
Q: What if a repair is needed to the property?
A: We will try to contact you prior to any repairs being made to the property. After your approval, we will coordinate a time with the vendor and the tenant to do the necessary repairs. [Top]
Q: What is the procedure if we need to evict a tenant?
A: West Point Property Management will work with a real estate attorney to evict the tenant, including going to court on your behalf with the attorney. You will not need to be present in court. There are no additional charges from our company for doing the eviction; however you will need to pay the attorney fees, which range from $150 to $900. [Top]
Q: What are the required forms by law that a tenant must sign?
A: By law the tenant is required to sign the “Data Base Disclosure” and “Lead Based Paint Disclosure”. We supply all the forms for the tenant. [Top]
Q: When do I pay for your services?
A: With a vacant property you will not pay anything until we collect from the tenant a full month’s rent and the full deposit (the deposit is usually equal to one month’s rent). We will then send you an invoice for the amount that is owed. [Top]
Q: Do you advertise on the MLS (Multiple Listing Service)?
A: Only when absolutely necessary. I like to advertise and show my own properties rather than having other agents showing the property. This will also save you at least $1000 or more in Realtor fees. [Top]
Q: Where do you advertise?
A: I have been using Craigslist with great success. I was using the Orange County Register for many years but found I received more calls from Craigslist. I also found the OC Register to be expensive and Craigslist is FREE. [Top]
Q: Who does the tenant call if there is a problem?
A: The tenant will have only my phone number (not a hot line, receptionist, or assistant) so I can decide where to direct their call or help them with a problem. [Top]
Q: How long have you been in business?
A: I have been in real estate and property management for over 20 years. I try my best to build a relationship with my owners and tenants. My goal is to keep your property in excellent condition and collect rent on time with the least amount of problems. [Top]
Q: When was the last time you had an eviction?
A: Over 9 years ago. I try my best to get highly qualified tenants to avoid an unlawful detainer action. This is the most important step in property management. [Top]
Q: Who shows prospective tenants the property?
A: Generally, I will show the prospective tenant. I don’t like to have my assistant or a $10 an hour inexperienced person show perspective tenants. I have two people help show property for me currently and one is a retired LAPD and the other is a Licensed Realtor. Again, this is the most critical part of management in qualifying a person. Some people have high FICO scores but are not good tenants. Conversely, some people have bad credit but can be excellent tenants. [Top]
Q: Do you have an in-house vendor?
A: No, I hire licensed and insured contractors. Whatever the contractor charges me is what I will charge you, no “add ons”. [Top]
Q: Do you charge more if you need to go to the property for various reasons?
A: You will only pay the flat fee or percentage agreed upon regardless of how many times I go to the property. I do not charge any other fees except for the initial leasing fee of $295 no matter how long it takes to rent your property. [Top]
Q: Do you have a computerized monthly statement?
A: No, my specialty is 8 units or less and single family homes. Most owners like getting their full rent deposited into their account each month and paying their mortgage and property taxes on their own. I will bill you for my services and also bill you for any vendor work that has been completed. [Top]
Q: Do you favor a 12 - month lease or Month to Month contract?
A: I have the most success with a yearly lease. This way, if the tenants break the lease they will be liable for the lost rent and expenses to re-rent the property. [Top]
