How do you manage tenants from multiple properties across two or more cities? It's not an easy task, and something you initially wanted as a source of passive income may become a full-time job if you aren't prepared.
One way to simplify and automate your daily tasks is by utilizing an online tenant portal. These portals are great for the variety of options they have and their customizability. You can make great use of them whether you own a few small properties or deal with dozens of tenants.
Here are some of the many benefits of using an online portal for both owners and tenants.
Easier Payments
First of all, utilizing an online portal makes paying rent much easier and more efficient. Other payment methods often take time to transfer. Mailed checks are especially risky, as they may get lost in the mail or may lack sufficient funds to cash them out.
An online payment takes money directly out of a tenant's checking account and deposits it into the landlord's account. There's little delay, and you'll know immediately if there is any problem with the payment.
Quicker Maintenance Requests
Tenants who come across problems with their plumbing, heating, and other property damage will need to get in touch with their landlords for repairs. However, maintenance requests may be more difficult to put in late at night or on the weekends. Your landlord may want to get in touch to coordinate maintenance and find the best repair person.
The best way to do this is through an online portal. All of your requests will get logged, and the landlord can check them at their convenience.
More Accountability
One of the best things about an online portal is that it keeps track of every transaction, maintenance request, and correspondence between tenant and landlord.
If a tenant claims to have sent in their rent one day, the landlord can fact-check that. At the same time, a landlord cannot say they never got a payment if the system says otherwise.
First-time landlords will benefit from this feature, as it'll help them manage their finances better.
Improved Relationship With Tenants
Most importantly, utilizing a tenant portal may result in better tenant relations. Some communication tips say to always stay in touch, and the portal allows for that.
Your portal may allow for direct messaging, so there's no risk of missing an important email. After all, there's nothing worse than asking a landlord for permission to do something in your apartment, and then they never get back to you.
Try a Tenant Portal Today
While the use of a tenant portal may seem like distancing yourself from your tenants, that idea couldn't be more wrong. An online portal allows for instant communication between landlord and tenant. It also helps make your job much easier so you can focus on other endeavors.
PMI Fountain City offers property management services throughout the Kansas City area. Our services cover both residential management as well as home watch. Contact us today to hear more about how we can help both landlords and residents.
