Common Mistakes DIY Landlords Make Without a Property Manager
Managing a rental property on your own can seem manageable at first, especially if you’re only overseeing one or two units. But without the support of a property management company, landlords can easily run into trouble—sometimes costly trouble.
Here are some of the most common mistakes we see DIY landlords make:
1. Improper Tenant Screening
A rushed or incomplete screening process can lead to unreliable tenants, missed rent payments, and even legal issues.
What often goes wrong:
- Not running credit checks
- Skipping rental history or reference verification
- Failing to comply with Fair Housing laws
Why it matters: A solid screening process helps protect your investment and lowers the chance of turnover or eviction.
2. Inconsistent Rent Collection
Some landlords take a too-casual approach to rent collection—accepting late payments without a clear system or consequences.
What often goes wrong:
- No late fee policy in place
- No written lease outlining payment terms
- Difficulty enforcing rules with tenants
Why it matters: Consistency keeps your cash flow stable and sets the right expectations with tenants from day one.
3. Weak or Missing Lease Agreements
A handshake deal or a generic lease pulled from the internet isn’t enough. Every lease should be specific, thorough, and legally sound.
What often goes wrong:
- Lease doesn’t follow local landlord-tenant laws
- Key terms like maintenance responsibilities or renewal procedures are left out
- No clear rules for subletting, pets, or property access
Why it matters: A strong lease protects both you and your tenant if something goes wrong.
4. Delays in Maintenance or Repairs
Landlords sometimes underestimate how quickly small issues can become big ones—or how long it can take to find a reliable contractor.
What often goes wrong:
- Repairs are delayed or DIY’ed improperly
- Tenants stop reporting issues due to past delays
- Costs increase due to neglect or damage
Why it matters: Prompt maintenance protects your property’s value and keeps tenants satisfied.
5. Not Keeping Up With Local Laws and Regulations
Landlord-tenant laws can change frequently and vary by city or county. Staying compliant isn’t always easy.
What often goes wrong:
- Improper handling of security deposits
- Not giving the right amount of notice for entry or lease termination
- Violating fair housing or habitability standards
Why it matters: Mistakes here can lead to lawsuits, fines, or forced refunds.
6. Underestimating the Time Commitment
Many landlords don’t realize how time-consuming property management can be—especially when juggling after-hours calls, accounting, marketing vacancies, or handling emergencies.
What often goes wrong:
- Burnout, especially for those with full-time jobs
- Missed deadlines or tenant concerns falling through the cracks
- Increased vacancy rates due to delays or lack of responsiveness
Why it matters: Managing a rental well takes time, attention, and organization—especially if you want long-term success.
Thinking of Going Pro?
Hiring a professional property management company isn’t just about convenience—it’s about protecting your investment and avoiding costly mistakes. From legal compliance to tenant screening and maintenance, we take care of the details so you don’t have to.
Questions? Want to learn how we can help?
📞 703-537-3340
📧 hello@mcepm.com
