In order to bring more long term value to the rental property–especially if you’d like to sell in the near future–it’s often recommended a landlord should keep up with regular maintenance any ultimately make the necessary repairs. You can find ways to save money making repairs in order to always keep your property in tip-top shape. Repairs aren’t necessarily the place where you want to skimp on costs–however, there are some great ways you can save money on repair costs for your Alabama rentals. Below, learn about some of our favorite ways landlords can save money making repairs on your Alabama investment properties.
Build A Reliable Team
Partner up with reliable contractors who you can trust for every repair and renovation. Establishing strong, long-term relationships with skilled professionals ensures that your properties receive high-quality workmanship every time. With trusted contractors in place, you gain peace of mind knowing that repairs will be handled correctly, efficiently, and with integrity. You won’t have to second-guess the quality of work or worry about projects being delayed due to unreliable workers.
Additionally, having a dependable cleanup crew is just as essential. Once repairs are complete, a professional cleaning service can ensure that your property is spotless and move-in ready. Every successful landlord knows the value of a go-to cleaning team that consistently delivers outstanding results. By assembling a network of trustworthy contractors and cleaners, you streamline property maintenance and protect your investment while saving yourself time and stress.
Deal With Scheduling Repairs Yourself
When you leave the repairs up to the tenants, it’s like handing them a blank check with no guarantee of quality or cost control. Tenants will focus on resolving the issue quickly rather than finding the best price or ensuring long-term durability. They may not be concerned about whether the repair is done efficiently or if the contractor they choose is reputable. This can lead to inflated costs, unnecessary work, or even subpar repairs that create bigger issues down the line.
To maintain control over both cost and quality, it’s best to handle repairs yourself by sourcing your own trusted contractors. By doing so, you can ensure the work is done correctly, using the right materials and techniques, at a fair and competitive price. Once the repairs are completed, you have the opportunity to inspect them, making sure they meet your standards. If a tenant were to choose the vendor, you could end up paying for poor workmanship or even needing additional repairs sooner than expected. Taking charge of repairs protects your investment, maintains the integrity of your property, and saves you from costly mistakes in the long run.
Screen Your Tenants Thoroughly
Sometimes, repairs are necessary because of tenant-caused damage, which can be costly and frustrating. One of the best ways to prevent these issues is by thoroughly screening your tenants before they move in. A comprehensive screening process should include speaking with previous landlords, checking references, and running background checks on all potential occupants. This step helps you identify responsible tenants who are more likely to treat your property with care and respect.
Even if you know the prospective tenant personally, never assume they will maintain your home to your standards. Personal relationships don’t always guarantee good tenancy, so it’s crucial to remain objective and follow a consistent vetting process.
Beyond screening, fostering open communication with your tenants is key to preventing minor issues from turning into costly repairs. Encourage them to report any signs of damage, leaks, or unusual occurrences as soon as they arise. A proactive tenant who notifies you about a small leak can help you avoid thousands of dollars in water damage repairs. By staying involved, selecting responsible tenants, and promoting prompt reporting, you can protect your investment and reduce the likelihood of major repair expenses.
Make The Repairs Yourself
You don’t need to be a carpenter or plumber to deal with basic repairs the property needs. Many things can be handled on your own with just a little elbow grease. Of course, this should only be done if you are confident in your abilities and know what you are doing. Don’t bite off more than you can chew or you are likely going to find yourself with even more repairs to make! Know when to call in a professional and when it makes more sense to handle it on your own. Sometimes the DIY aspects of being a landlord can appear unglamorous, but when you see that tremendous ROI, it suddenly won’t seem to matter so much.
Landlords face many costs over the life of their investment. By being able to make repairs in a cost-efficient manner, landlords can save money, and put more of their profits in their pockets.