Blog Posts

Refinancing your rental property mortgage can improve cash flow and unlock equity. Learn how MTD Properties can support your successful refinance.

Key Takeaways Service animals are not pets and must be accommodated without pet fees or deposits, as protected by fair housing laws in Chicago. Landlords can request limited verification of the need for a service animal but cannot demand training certificates or detailed medical information. Reasonable accommodations are required unless the animal poses a direct threat or causes major damage, and consistent, fair policies help avoid legal issues.  Are you unsure how to handle a rental application from a resident who has a service animal? As a rental property owner, it’s natural to feel uncertain when navigating legal obligations, resident rights, and your own responsibilities. Many landlords wonder whether they can enforce pet restrictions or charge pet deposits in these cases, but service animals fall into a very different category. Understanding the rules around them isn’t just important, it’s essential for staying compliant and protecting your investment. If you’re managing properties in Chicago, MTD Property Management for investors in Chicago is well-versed in helping landlords like you make informed, confident decisions while staying on the right side of fair housing laws.

Have you explored U.S. property investment as a foreign buyer? Learn how to manage rentals, stay compliant, and maximize your returns abroad.

Have you reminded tenants to report repairs promptly? Timely maintenance requests help preserve your property and boost tenant satisfaction.

Key Takeaways Focus on Tenant Retention : Maintaining positive relationships with current tenants through responsive communication and quality maintenance can lead to long-term occupancy and reduced turnover costs. Maintain Property Appeal : Regular upkeep and improvements, such as landscaping and prompt repairs, enhance the property's attractiveness, encouraging both current and prospective tenants to choose and stay in your rental. Chicago Property Management Set Competitive Rental Prices : Researching local market rates ensures your rental pricing is attractive to potential tenants while maintaining profitability. Streamline the Leasing Process : Utilizing digital tools for applications and leases, and responding promptly to inquiries, can expedite tenant onboarding and reduce vacancy periods.Vacancy is one of the most costly issues a rental property owner can face. Every day your unit sits empty is a day of lost income. It also means increased operational expenses, additional marketing efforts, and the possibility of property deterioration. At MTD Property Management , we know that reducing vacancy rates is not just about finding tenants quickly. It’s about keeping good tenants happy, pricing your units appropriately, and maintaining your property so that it remains attractive and competitive in the market. Here are actionable strategies to minimize vacancy in your rental properties. Keep reading to learn more! Keep Your Current Tenants Happy One of the most effective ways to avoid vacancies is to focus on tenant retention. It costs far less to keep an existing tenant than to find a new one. When you maintain a good relationship with your tenants, they’re more likely to stay long-term. That means fewer gaps between leases, fewer marketing expenses, and fewer maintenance costs associated with preparing a unit for a new renter. All of this helps maintain stronger cash flow . Start by responding to tenant concerns promptly and respectfully. Provide quality maintenance and conduct occasional property inspections to ensure everything remains in good condition.

Have you prepared your rental finances? Discover tax tips for landlords to boost deductions and avoid costly filing mistakes this season.

Have you been struggling to get more rent for your Chicago apartment? Discover 5 simple ways to boost your rental income without overwhelming yourself.

Avoid costly pitfalls as a DIY landlord. Learn 11 common mistakes and how to protect your time, money, and rental property.

Have you been wondering how to calculate the ROI on a property investment? Learn the steps, key factors, and tips to accurately assess your investment potential.