Why Waterproofing Property is so Important?

It is always good to be prepared whenever we hear on the news about bad weather coming. Inclement weather, rain, hail, heavy winds and snow can damage property. Property management companies agree that one of the best ways to prevent nature from damaging our property is to waterproof it. If you feel waterproofing is just an additional cost, think about the extra expenses you will incur if you have to repair or replace roofing, insulation or rewire.

What Are the Effects of Not Waterproofing?

Hydrostatic pressure from water penetrates the soil outside a property’s foundation, this pushes against the foundation, weakening it. A weakened foundation may also affect the wall, which may collapse or bow it in. Waterproofing the basement prevents water from seeping in and that structure damage it may cause over time.

Water that seeps into roofing and walls, may damage insulation. If you fail to waterproof, you may have a difficult time controlling the temperature. An inefficient system costs more to operate because it will use more energy to provide you with the hotness or coldness you want.

The accumulation of water on the roof, whether caused by rain and/or snow, may also damage it. These may result in leaks and cause the roof to collapse because of the weight.

Structural damage isn’t the only thing you have to worry about, if you don’t waterproof. Leaks and water that seeps into walls may cause mould to form. Mould affects indoor air quality and may cause allergy attacks, asthma, sinus irritation and other similar respiratory ailments. Property management is required to take precautionary measures such as waterproofing property to prevent any unnecessary repair expenses down the road.

The Advantages of Waterproofing

When you waterproof, it may improve the value of your property, whether it is commercial or residential. This system prevents moisture from seeping into roofing, walls and insulation. Unwanted moisture may lead to the rusting of metals and wood to decay. Property management companies cite the cliché that prevention is always better than cure. This adage also rings true for operating real estate and keeping occupants satisfied.

Waterproofing keeps property structurally sound, in good condition throughout the year, and prevents walls and roof from bowing in or collapsing. You save more money and prolong the life of your property when you waterproof.

When you hire a property management company, look for one that has the experience and track record to deliver on their promises. A manager will allow you to focus on the bigger picture of managing your real estate, while he or she manages the smaller details such as maintenance, repairs, renovations and other aspects of operations.

The Top Three Responsibilities of a Property Manager

Investing in property is a profitable endeavor that can be a lot of work. That is why some property owners prefer to hire a corporate property management company to act on their behalf. Most property managers take on the responsibility of dealing with tenant issues, setting and collecting rent, as well as staying on top of repairs and routine maintenance so that rental units stay in prime condition. The services that corporate property management companies provide may vary. Therefore, it’s always best to discuss the details of the services provided before signing a contract.

Attracting and Keeping Tenants

One of the most important jobs a property manager has is to fill vacancies. Full occupancy means more profit. A property manager is responsible for advertising vacancies and filling them. Managers must know who the market is and how to compel them to rent the space they are managing. An experienced property manager will have an understanding of what their ideal tenant needs and how to create a positive perception to attract them.

Managers screen tenants to determine suitable candidates for the rental properties they manage. They follow an in-depth screening process to ensure that owners only get quality tenants. Property managers must have good communication skills, patience for handling complaints and the ability to honor both the renter and the owner when coming up with resolutions to issues or concerns. They must also be able to address maintenance and repair problems quickly to prevent unnecessary damage and keep tenants happy.

Rent Responsibilities

Typically property managers set the initial level of rent, collect it and make necessary adjustments if needed. Managers must have knowledge about the neighborhood, target market and comparable real estate to determine what is appropriate. If rent for a property is set too high, keeping full occupancy may be difficult. Comparatively, if it is set too low, profitability will suffer.

A manager also acts as an enforcer when it is time to collect rent. They must be able to ensure that rent gets paid on time to maintain cash flow. They are also responsible for increasing rental rates if the condition of the property deems it necessary in order to maintain a quality rental space.

Property Maintenance, Repairs and Improvements

Corporate property management companies must make sure that the real estate they manage is in good condition. This means they address issues such as plumbing, pipe or insulation repairs, etc. immediately. They must ensure that the properties they manage follow a regular maintenance schedule so that they can stay on top of what needs fixing, replacement or improvement. By addressing issues in a timely manner, properties retain their integrity and value and end up being more profitable when it comes time to sell.

Dealing with tenant issues, setting and collecting rent and property maintenance is time consuming and can be aggravating. Frustration can be avoided by hiring a qualified corporate property management company to assist you. The investment will be worth it in the long run.

Spring Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

Are you having a difficult time keeping occupants happy? Maybe you are overlooking the little details with the operations of your property. Small things matter because they accumulate over time; if you fail to repair a pipe immediately or even take care of the curb appeal these may make a bad impression on your tenants.

These maintenance and spring cleaning tips from property management service companies will both improve occupant satisfaction and the value of your property.

Exterior and Interior Maintenance

For commercial properties, it is very important to maintain the exterior and interior. Be sure to check the property’s exterior for any damage to paint, landscaping, windows that need replacing or cleaning and signage. The exterior will make the first impression on potential tenants, make it count.

There must be a balance between the appearance of the exterior and interior. The latter must look just as presentable as it is important to have a good first impression. By sweeping and washing the floors, repairing any cracks or even if the walls need fresh paint, it will improve your occupancy chances if you do whatever is necessary to keep the rented spaces clean and in move­in condition.

Facilities and Utilities

Property management service companies like Latitude Limited agree that owners must keep their facilities and utilities in top­notch condition regardless of the season. The bathrooms, break rooms, elevators, escalators, air conditioning units, water heaters and others must be working properly before and after spring. These play an important role in the operations of a commercial property.

Vacuuming and Cleaning

The management of residential properties are a bit different compared to their commercial counterparts. You have to be more extensive in your cleaning to keep occupants happy. Spring is a great time to vacuum and clean every nook and cranny of the space you rent out. Leave no area dirty and make sure furniture is spotless.

Wash Walls and Woodwork

Most dirt falls on the floor, but some cling onto vertical surfaces. In such cases, you need to wash down walls, cabinets, baseboards and other woodwork in the property. a sponge and some hand dishwashing detergent come in handy in situations like this. Wash the surfaces in sections and use a sponge mop to reach high spots. An occupant will feel comfortable and welcome when they see their room and its exterior spotless.

Landscaping

Property management service companies cite that the landscaping needs to look good in order to attract potential tenants and make the real estate welcoming to current occupants. Remove weeds, snow, branches and other debris left behind by winter. Re-plant, trim or landscape overgrown plants to improve the look of your property.

Implementing these spring cleaning tips for residential or commercial properties keeps current tenants happy and may attract others that may fill vacancies.