Lifestyles Realty Group Property Management Blog

Why Hire a Property Manager in Bend, Oregon?

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 18:41:21 GMT

Why Hire a Property Manager in Bend, Oregon?

Why Hiring a Property Manager in Bend Makes Sense

Owning a rental property in Bend, Oregon can be a smart long-term investment — but managing it successfully requires more than just finding a tenant and collecting rent. From Oregon landlord-tenant laws to maintenance coordination and tenant screening, rental ownership comes with ongoing responsibilities that can quickly become overwhelming.

This is where hiring a professional property manager in Bend can make a meaningful difference.

Bend’s Rental Market Requires Local Knowledge

Bend is a unique rental market. Seasonal demand, relocation activity, and changing regulations all affect how rental properties perform. A local property management company understands current market conditions, pricing trends, and tenant expectations — helping owners avoid costly mistakes.

Accurate rental pricing, professional marketing, and local insight often mean:

Shorter vacancy periods
Higher quality tenants
Fewer issues during the lease term

What a Property Manager Handles for You

Hiring a property manager means having a professional oversee the day-to-day operations of your rental. Services typically include:

Marketing and advertising your rental property
Screening and placing qualified tenants
Preparing and enforcing leases
Collecting rent and managing owner disbursements
Coordinating maintenance and repairs
Conducting inspections and handling emergencies
Staying compliant with Oregon landlord-tenant laws

For many owners, this level of support allows them to enjoy the benefits of rental ownership without the stress.

Legal Compliance Matters in Oregon

Oregon has specific landlord-tenant laws that govern screening criteria, security deposits, rent increases, and lease enforcement. Mistakes — even unintentional ones — can be expensive.

A professional Bend property manager stays current on regulations and ensures that all processes are handled correctly, protecting both the owner and the tenant relationship.

Is Hiring a Property Manager Worth It?

For owners who value their time, want to protect their investment, or live outside the area, hiring a property manager is often well worth the cost. Professional management can improve long-term performance, reduce vacancy, and minimize costly issues before they escalate.

If you’re considering property management in Bend, Oregon, working with a local, experienced company can provide peace of mind and consistent results.

www.bendlifestylesrentals.com

Why So Many People Are Moving to Bend, Oregon

Sat, 20 Dec 2025 18:21:09 GMT

Why So Many People Are Moving to Bend, Oregon

If you’re considering a move to Central Oregon, it’s hard to ignore the buzz around Bend. Once a quiet mountain town, Bend has grown into one of Oregon’s most desirable places to live—offering unbeatable access to outdoor recreation, a thriving food and brewery scene, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community.

Whether you’re relocating for lifestyle, work, or family, here’s why Bend continues to top the list for people looking to put down roots in the Pacific Northwest.

Endless Outdoor Adventure, All Year Long

Bend’s location at the edge of the Cascade Mountains makes it a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Hiking & Biking
The city is crisscrossed with scenic trails, including the Deschutes River Trail, which winds along the river and offers stunning views year-round. Mountain bikers flock to the Phil’s Trail Complex, one of the best-maintained trail systems in the region, with options for beginners through experts.

Winter Sports
Just 22 miles west of town sits Mt. Bachelor , one of the largest ski resorts in the Pacific Northwest. With thousands of acres of skiable terrain, it’s a major draw for skiers and snowboarders every winter.

Water Activities
When temperatures warm up, residents head to nearby lakes like Sparks Lake and Elk Lake for kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. Floating the Deschutes River has become a summer tradition—and yes, it’s as fun as it sounds.

A Food & Brewery Scene That Overdelivers

Despite its mountain-town roots, Bend punches well above its weight when it comes to dining.

Local Favorites
Restaurants like Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails and Sparrow Bakery are local staples, serving everything from elevated comfort food to iconic pastries (looking at you, Ocean Roll).

Craft Beer Capital
Bend is often called “Beer Town USA,” thanks to its impressive concentration of breweries. Deschutes Brewery helped put Bend on the national beer map, while spots like 10 Barrel Brewing Co. and Crux Fermentation Project keep the scene fresh and creative.

Farm-to-Table Dining
Farm-to-table isn’t a trend here—it’s a way of life. Jackson’s Corner and Ariana Restaurant highlight locally sourced ingredients and seasonal menus that locals swear by.

A Great Place to Raise a Family

Families moving to Bend will find strong schools and no shortage of kid-friendly amenities.

Schools
Bend-La Pine Schools is one of Oregon’s largest districts and consistently earns praise for academic performance and extracurricular offerings. Schools like Summit High School, Highland Magnet at Kenwood, and Cascade Middle School are frequently mentioned among the district’s top options.

Parks & Recreation
With more than 80 parks, Bend makes it easy to get outside. Drake Park hosts concerts and community events along the river, while The Pavilion offers year-round ice skating and indoor sports.

Family Attractions
The High Desert Museum and the Lava River Cave provide hands-on learning experiences that kids (and adults) actually enjoy.

A Community That Feels Like Home

What truly sets Bend apart is its sense of community.

Local farmers markets, seasonal festivals, and a lively arts scene make it easy to get involved and feel connected. Events like the Bend Summer Festival and Oregon WinterFest bring residents together, while venues like the Tower Theatre showcase live performances year-round.

Is Bend, Oregon Right for You?

With its stunning scenery, active lifestyle, thriving food and beer culture, and family-friendly environment, Bend offers an exceptional quality of life. Whether you’re chasing outdoor adventure, a welcoming community, or a better work-life balance, Bend continues to prove it’s more than just a place to live—it’s a place to belong.

Thinking about making Bend your home? If you’re considering buying, we recommend connecting with a trusted local real estate professional who knows the Bend market inside and out.

�� Work with a local Bend Realtor

PRESS RELEASE

Sun, 07 Jul 2024 20:37:25 GMT

Lifestyles Realty Property Management Aquires Bend Dutch Property Management

Lifestyles Realty Acquires Bend Dutch Property Management: Enhancing Services and Care for Owners and Tenants

Bend, OR

Lifestyles Realty LLC is thrilled to announce its acquisition of Bend Dutch Property Management, effective June 21, 2024. This strategic merger marks a significant milestone in our commitment to enhancing property management services in the Bend area and an expansion into midterm rentals.

Lifestyles Realty LLC has built a strong reputation for excellence in property management and real estate sales, offering a comprehensive suite of services designed to maximize property value and tenant satisfaction. With the acquisition of Bend Dutch Property Management, we are excited to expand our footprint while continuing to deliver exceptional service to our clients.

Enhanced Services and Benefits While Still Maintaining Family Roots:

1. Retained Partners : We are thrilled to announce that we are continuing to work alongside both Sue Carrington and Aaron Schenck. We are thankful that they have found a home here with us at Lifestyles Realty which will enable us a continuity of care that would not otherwise be possible. Their years of experience and knowledge are invaluable.

2. Expanded Resources: Owners can now access a broader range of resources and expertise, including full service real estate services which will ensure efficient property management, sales, and purchases leading to enhanced profitability.

3. Advanced Technology: We are continuing for Lifestyles Realty owners and including for new properties cutting-edge property management software to streamline operations, enhance communication, and provide transparent reporting for owners and tenants alike.

4. Enhanced Maintenance Capabilities: Owners and tenants can expect prompt and professional maintenance services, ensuring that their homes are well-maintained and comfortable.

5. Personalized Customer Care: Our team remains committed to delivering personalized customer service, fostering strong relationships with both owners and tenants.

Commitment to Excellence:

At Lifestyles Realty, we understand that property management is not just about buildings; it's about people and communities. We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and reliability in all that we do.

Message to Owners and Tenants:

For owners currently with Bend Dutch Property Management, there will be a seamless transition, and you can expect continued dedication to the management of your properties. Our team is committed to ensuring that your investment is in good hands and that your experience remains positive and profitable.

Tenants can look forward to ongoing support and responsiveness from our team. We remain committed to providing comfortable living environments and prompt attention to maintenance requests.

About Lifestyles Realty:

Lifestyles Realty has been a leader in property management since 1991, serving clients with a commitment to excellence and a personalized approach. Our team is passionate about creating value for property owners and providing quality housing options for tenants.

Rent Prices Up, But Vacancies Are High

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 18:20:58 GMT

Rent Prices Continue to Climb in May: A Closer Look at Apartment List's June Report

In its latest report, Apartment List reveals that rent prices continued their upward trajectory in May, marking the fourth consecutive month of increases. This trend was observed in 80 of the nation’s 100 largest cities. However, despite these consistent monthly gains, the broader picture for 2024 remains one of sluggish overall rent growth.

Monthly Increases Amidst Sluggish Annual Growth

According to the June report, the national median rent increased by 0.5% in May, reaching $1,404. Yet, this figure only tells part of the story. The pace of rent growth has decelerated slightly, indicating a potentially slow summer for the rental market, which typically sees a surge in activity during the moving season.

“Eighty of the nation’s largest 100 cities had rents increase in May,” the report states. Yet, on a year-over-year basis, only 43 of these cities have seen positive rent growth. This mixed picture suggests that while there are pockets of rising rents, the overall market is experiencing more subdued growth.

Seasonal Trends and Year-Over-Year Declines

Interestingly, the usual seasonal patterns of rent increases have been less pronounced, while seasonal declines have been steeper. This has resulted in apartments being, on average, slightly cheaper today than they were a year ago. Nationally, year-over-year rent growth stands at -0.8%, remaining in negative territory since last summer.

“But despite this cooldown, the national median rent is still more than $200 per month higher than it was just a few years ago,” the report notes. This highlights the longer-term trend of rising rents, despite recent slowdowns.

Rising Vacancy Rates

A key factor influencing the current rental market is the supply of new apartments. The vacancy index, which has been steadily trending upward, reached 6.7% in May—the highest level since August 2020. This increase in vacancies is expected to continue as more new units come online.

“Despite a recent slowdown in new permits being issued and new construction projects breaking ground, the number of multifamily units under construction remains near record levels. (The year) 2023 saw the most new apartments complete construction in more than 30 years, and an even greater number of new units are expected to come on the market this year,” the report explains.

This surge in new apartment construction, particularly in Sun Belt markets, is likely to provide renters with more options than they've had in recent years. However, it also means that rental prices may be moderated by the increasing supply.

Conclusion

May’s rent prices highlight a market in flux. While rents have been rising for the past four months, the overall growth for 2024 remains modest. The anticipated influx of new apartments is likely to further temper rent increases, providing renters with more choices and potentially more bargaining power.

“Rent increases are currently being moderated by a robust construction pipeline expected to deliver a decades-high number of new apartment units in 2024,” Apartment List economists conclude. While there is some optimism regarding rental demand due to improving consumer sentiment, the impact of the substantial incoming supply appears to be the dominant force shaping the market.

As we move into the summer months, traditionally a period of heightened activity in the rental market, it will be interesting to see how these dynamics play out. For now, renters can expect a somewhat tempered rental landscape, characterized by more available options and a slower pace of rent growth.

The First 5 Questions to Ask When You Recieve a Rental Inquiry

Thu, 02 May 2024 20:21:02 GMT

When a potential tenant calls or emails inquiring about an available rental property, the property manager's goal is to gather essential information to assess whether the individual is a suitable fit for the property.

Here are the first five questions a property manager should ask:

What is Your Desired Move-in Date? : Understanding the potential tenant's timeline for moving in is crucial for coordinating property showings, lease signings, and any necessary preparations. It also helps ensure that the property manager can accommodate the tenant's needs and expectations regarding availabilitity.
Do You Have Pets? : Knowing whether the potential tenant has pets is essential for clarifying the property's pet policy and any associated fees or restrictions. This question allows the property manager to address potential concerns related to company and Owner pet policies (ie, age, breed, etc...)
What is Your Monthly Income? : Understanding the potential tenant's income provides insight into their ability to afford the rental property. Property managers typically aim for tenants whose monthly income is at least three times the monthly rent to ensure they can comfortably meet their financial obligations. Asking about income helps verify the tenant's ability to pay rent consistently and on time.
Do you have any questions about the property? Making sure potential tenant's questions are answered provides insight for all parties. Maybe they need a fenced yard, washer & dryer in unit, garage, etc... By learning more about their wants and needs you could potentially have another available unit that they may be interested in as well.
Do you want to scheudle a showing? Offering a showing, prior to receiving their applications, ensures that they do want to move forward and that they are not wasting money on applications fees for homes that may not fit their needs.

By asking these initial questions, property managers can gather crucial information to evaluate the potential tenant's suitability for the rental property and determine whether to proceed with the application process. Additionally, these questions lay the groundwork for more in-depth discussions regarding lease terms, rental policies, and tenant expectations.

Spring Into Action!

Tue, 12 Mar 2024 18:09:24 GMT

Spring Into Action: Essential Property Management Tasks for the Season

As winter fades away and the days grow longer, spring brings with it a sense of renewal and rejuvenation. It's also the perfect time for home owners and property managers to tackle essential tasks to ensure their properties are ready for the warmer months ahead. From routine maintenance to seasonal upgrades, here are some key steps to spring into action with effective property management:

Inspect Exterior Spaces: Start by conducting a thorough inspection of the exterior of your property. Check for any signs of winter damage, such as cracked pavement, damaged siding, or clogged gutters. Addressing these issues early can prevent further damage and help maintain the curb appeal of your property.

Landscaping Maintenance: Spring is the ideal time to spruce up your property's landscaping. Trim trees and bushes, mow the lawn, and plant flowers or shrubs to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal. A well-maintained landscape not only attracts tenants but also adds value to your property.

Check HVAC Systems: As temperatures rise, it's essential to ensure that your property's HVAC systems are in proper working condition. Schedule routine maintenance for air conditioning units, change filters, and inspect ductwork for any signs of wear or damage. Proper maintenance can improve energy efficiency and prevent costly repairs down the line.

Inspect Roof and Gutters: Winter weather can take a toll on your property's roof and gutters. Inspect the roof for missing shingles, leaks, or other damage, and clean out gutters to prevent water buildup and potential water damage. Addressing these issues promptly can help protect your property from costly water-related problems.

Review Safety Measures: Spring is an excellent time to review and update safety measures on your property. Test smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers to ensure they are in proper working condition.

Communicate with Tenants: Keep your tenants informed about any upcoming maintenance or improvements planned for the property. Provide clear instructions on how they can help maintain the property, such as reporting maintenance issues promptly or following landscaping guidelines. Effective communication fosters a positive landlord-tenant relationship and promotes tenant satisfaction.

Plan for Summer Maintenance: Finally, use the spring season to plan ahead for summer maintenance tasks. Schedule routine inspections, deck maintenance, landscaping services, and HVAC maintenance to keep your property in top condition throughout the warmer months.

Spring is an excellent time for property managers to take proactive steps to ensure their properties are well-maintained and prepared for the season ahead. By addressing maintenance tasks, enhancing safety measures, and communicating effectively with tenants, you can set the stage for a successful and enjoyable spring season for everyone involved.

Signs You Need To Hire A Property Manager

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 02:59:54 GMT

Signs You Need To Hire A Property Manager

Being a landlord is more work than you'd think. Rental properties can be great investments but you need to manage your properties effectively, and a lot of owners struggle with this. Property management companies can provide landlord rescue by taking on various responsibilities.

Signs you need to hire a Property Manager..

YOU HAVE MULTIPLE PROPERTIES

If you own just one rental property, you'll notice that even one can be challenging to manage. Start purchasing more, and you may quickly become overwhelmed. It's not realistic for a single person to manage multiple properties and stay on top of everything. A property management company has the staff and resources to be able to look after multiple properties at once without any issues.

YOU DON'T HAVE ENOUGH TIME

Time is arguably THE MOST VALUABLE resource you have, and you can't make any more of it. Property management is time-consuming. A property management company can provide a landlord with assistance so that they have more free time.

YOU HAVE TROUBLE WITH YOUR TENANTS

Unfortunately, some tenants can cause issues, and they may be difficult to deal with. This could be excessive noise that's disturbing neighbors, failing to pay rent on time, or something else. Property managers have plenty of experience with difficult tenants, so they know how to approach things. Most Property Mangers are up to date on the every changing local and state laws, which is crucial in Property Management.

YOU LIVE FAR AWAY FROM YOUR PROPERTIES OR TRAVEL OFTEN

If you live far away from your rental properties, then it would be difficult to tend to emergencies, move-outs, etc... Some people like to travel, but this doesn't work very well if you have properties you need to look after. Emergencies can arise, and you might need to get to one of your properties immediately. If you have a property manager, they can deal with any issues that come up. This will give you peace of mind so you can travel at your leisure without having to worry.

YOU DON'T KNOW HOW TO MARKET YOUR PROPERTIES

Before you can make money from a property, you need to find Tenants. When you list it online, it should stand out from the competition. You need to optimize the heading, description, and pictures to make your property as appealing as possible.

This is harder than most people think, but property management companies know what's needed. They can create listings that will get people's attention so you have a lot more people interested in your property. You'll then have more people to choose from so it will be easier to find ideal tenants.

Rental properties can bring a lot of challenges with them, and the more you own, the more difficult things will be. A professional property management company can offer landlords support so that you can get the most out of the homes you invest in.

Lifestyles Realty Group is a local family owned property management company that will help you make money from your investment. Contact us today to get started!

Garbage Disposal Do's & Don'ts

Thu, 04 Jan 2024 23:10:32 GMT

Garbage Disposal Do's & Don'ts

Clogged drains are a major inconvenience, and garbage disposal repair or replacement can be costly.

Just because your disposal can grind up just about anything does not mean that your home’s plumbing—let alone your city’s waste system—can handle large amounts of food waste.

Do These Things to keep your garbage disposal healthy:

1. Run your garbage disposal regularly

Frequent use prevents rust and corrosion, making sure that all parts stay moving to prevent small obstructions from accumulating.

2. Run cold water

Always run a strong cold water flow before you turn it on to grind food waste. Cold water will cause any grease or oils that may get into the unit to solidify so that they can be chopped up before reaching the trap.

3. Cut large items into smaller pieces

It’s hard on the machine if you force large pieces of anything. Put pieces into the garbage disposal a few at a time with the cold water running instead of trying to shove a large amount in all at once.

Don’t Do These Things:

4. Don’t pour down grease, oil, or fat

Grease will slowly accumulate and not only stop the disposal from grinding up food particles—it will also create drain clogs that you do not want to experience.

5. Don’t use hot water when grinding food waste

Hot water will cause grease to liquefy and accumulate, causing—you guessed it—hopelessly clogged drains!

6. Don’t grind anything fibrous

Don’t grind anything that’s tough and fibrous like eggshells, corn husks, celery, onion skins, and artichokes. Fibers from these can tangle and jam the garbage disposal motor and block drains. Citrus peel, while touted by many as a great way to freshen and clean this appliance, are a problem just waiting to happen.

7. Don’t stop cold water until grinding is finished

When grinding is complete, turn off the garbage disposal first. Let a strong flow of cold water continue to run for at least 15 seconds, flushing out any remaining particles. Then turn off the water.

8. Don’t put potato peels down the garbage disposal

The starches in the potatoes will turn into a thick paste and may cause blades to stick and oh boy, what a mess you’ll have. Do yourself a favor and put potato peels into the compost pile or garbage can.

9. Don’t put large amounts down all at once

If you must, feed food into the garbage disposal a little at a time with the cold water running; this will help the food scraps flow down freely through the drain pipes and plumbing. Stuffing, cramming are not actions enjoyed by any disposal or plumbing situation.

10. Don’t put in expandable foods

Don’t put things like pasta and rice into your garbage disposal. If it expands as you cook it, that’s what will happen in your pipes or the disposal itself. Result? Jams and clogs.

11. Don’t put coffee grounds down a garbage disposal

Even though small amounts of coffee grounds won’t harm the garbage disposal and can actually help eliminate odors, the problem is coffee grounds can accumulate in drains and pipes, causing clogs. It’s best just to avoid it.

When you drop coffee grounds down your disposal, they clump–just like they do when you pour water on them in the coffeemaker. When coffee grounds clump together, they stick to themselves and everything around them. They stick to disposal blades and the sides of pipes. If you drop them into your drain they’ll make a big, gross clog in no time.

12. Don’t use bleach or drain cleaners

These products can damage blades and pipes. There are much better ways to keep that drain running clean and clear.

13. Don’t put in anything that is non-biodegradable

Don’t ever (that means never) put anything in the disposal that is not biodegradable food. Your disposal is not a trash can. Don’t grind glass, plastic, metal, paper towels, etc...

14. Don’t use your hand to retrieve

Never put your hand in the garbage disposal to retrieve fallen items. Turn off (unplug) the disposal first and then use tongs to retrieve any fallen items.

A Good Rule

A good rule of thumb is that when in doubt, toss it out (in the garbage) and not down your sink’s garbage disposal.

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

michelle@lifestylesgroupre.com (Michelle Hardesty) — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 05:39:16 GMT

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

Fall is in the air...

The days are getting shorter and the temperature is feeling a little cooler. While you may be ready to enjoy hot apple cider and pumpkin carving, it's also time to prepare your home for cold weather.

Here's a checklist of important fall home maintenance tasks to consider doing ever year.

Blow Out Your Sprinkler System

You don’t want any water freezing inside the sprinkler system, so it’s important to get it “blown out” before freezing temperatures arrive. Bend landscaping companies will be happy to schedule this for you (schedule early as they can get busy) and will also often pack your sprinkler box with insulation for extra protection. The city will also usually require an annual backflow test, and this is a good time to get that testing done if you haven't already.

Avoid Broken Exterior Faucets

In particularly cold weather – and especially overnight – pipes with water left inside can freeze. When this water expands, it can crack pipes and create serious flooding issues. Make sure garden hoses are disconnected from hose bibs. You can also find cheap covers to put on your external faucets to keep them protected from freezing up.

Test Smoke Alarms and CO2 Detectors

It's a great time to test smoke alarms and replace batteries if needed. It's also a good time to test your CO2 alarm.

Check Winter Equipment

Replace any worn snow shovels and test/charge snow blowers. Also, consider getting an ice scraper to remove that nasty ice on the driveway/walkways that we’ve all had a slip and fall on at one point or another.

The ergonomic design and best materials used by the more expensive shovels are worth the extra cost and will save your back while making the job easier.

Consider creating an emergency "winter" car package with a blanket, batteries, first-aid kit and other necessities incase you get stuck out in the Central Oregon cold.

Clean and Adjust Ceiling Fans

Wipe any accumulated dust off your ceiling fan and look for a switch to change direction. Ceiling fans should always turn clockwise in winter, which can push rising warm air down on people in the room.

Maintain Your Heating System

HVAC systems usually have a central fan system with a filter inside to help catch debris. You should replace these filters between major seasonal shifts before they get too clogged. Note the size of your filter, and you can find a replacement at most local home improvement stores. This is also the time to switch your thermostat settings if you need to.

How to Turn Tenants into Long Term Residents

Thu, 29 Jun 2023 17:07:23 GMT

How to Turn Tenants into Long Term Residents

Good tenants can sometimes seem like a blue moon, hard to come by, and sometimes even harder to secure long-term. Only a happy renter would want to continue staying at your property. Building a long-term relationship with a great occupant involves developing trust and loyalty. So if you like your tenants and want them to stay, here are five strategies on how to transform tenants into long-term residents:

Effective Communication: Listen to your Tenants and be responsive. Clear communication between tenants and property managers minimizes misunderstandings and potential disputes. Communication is vital in securing long-term residents.

Maintain Property: No Tenant likes to live in discomfort while waiting for their maintenance request to be addressed. Have a process and follow through with it. A well-maintained property can help motivate Tenants to take better care of the property and increases the chances of retaining them.

Reasonable Rental Rate: Consider the neighborhood, size of your rental, type of rental, and how new the construction is to determine a reasonable rental rate. This decreases the chances of Tenants "shopping" around after the first year and increases your chances of retaining them.

Keep Tenants Informed: It is very important to keep your residents informed of anything that is happening in or around your property. Quality renters will only turn into long-term occupiers when you show them you care. Keeping your renters well-informed will make them feel more at home and comfortable with you.

Online Tenant Portal: Provide a intuitive online portal that tenants can access from anywhere, at any time. The ability to check the status of rent payments, maintenance requests and access lease agreements online contributes to a satisfying rental experience.

In an increasingly competitive rental market, property managers must ensure that tenants feel valued and understood, leading to lasting, positive relationships. Through consistent tenant satisfaction, property managers can expect to see improved online reviews and word-of-mouth referrals, leading to increased demand and occupancy rates.

5 Ways To Get Your Home Ready For Spring

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 17:33:04 GMT

Five Ways To Get Your Home Ready For Spring

5 Ways to Get Your Home Ready for Spring

Spring is officially here and that means it’s time to spring-erize your property. Here are 5 ways to get the home ready for the new season:

1. Get the sprinklers turned on

Get the sprinklers turned on. If your home has a sprinkler system that was properly blown out and shut off before winter, it’s now time to start thinking about getting it back up and running. Replace any sprinkler head that need repair and get the system programmed for your preferred watering schedule.

2. Inspect and landscaping or yard needs

Inspect any landscaping or yard needs. Once the snow has melted it’s a good time to check any lawn areas that may need reseeding or other areas of the yard that may need attention. Now is also a good time to open foundation vents. Make sure to keep any styrofoam blocks in a safe place to reuse next season.

3. Check air systems

Check air systems. If your home has an air conditioning unit, now’s a great time to check it. Make sure filters are cleaned or replaced and see that any other routine maintenance is scheduled.

4. Test smoke detectors

Test smoke detectors. With the turn of the seasons, now is a great reminder to check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Test all alarms and replace batteries if needed.

5. Spring cleaning

Spring cleaning! During the winter outside areas can become cluttered with things like snow shovels, rock salt or other things. Nothing feels more satisfying than a good clean home, so find a few things to tidy up, donate or put in storage to free up space and leave you with a clean home.

Whether you own your own home, rent or own a rental property, these are important tips for everyone to know and follow regularly each year.

Wear & Tear Vs. Damage

Sun, 05 Mar 2023 23:07:57 GMT

What's The Difference Between Wear & Tear and Damage?

Landlords and tenants alike often become confused about what qualifies as normal wear & tear versus actual damage when it comes to tenant turnover.

Renters are typically responsible for damage that is out of the ordinary, which can be deducted from a security deposit. Renters are not held accountable for the normal wear and tear on the property – that becomes the owner’s expense.

The cost an owner incurs for the basic cleaning and repairing of such items necessary to make a unit ready for occupancy by the next tenant are part of the costs of doing business.

Tenant damages usually require more extensive repair or cleaning, at a greater cost than “normal wear and tear”. Tenant damage is often the result of a tenant’s abuse or negligence that is above and beyond normal wear and tear.

Here are a few guidelines for determining whether damages to your property are the result of everyday use.

NORMAL WEAR & TEAR

Faded paint
Minor holes in the wall from thumbtacks or nails from hanging posters
Faded curtains
Carpet worn by normal use
Minor scratches in the wood floor
Wood floors requiring a new varnish

TENANT CAUSED DAMAGE

Unauthorized paint job that requires re-painting
Major holes in the wall or excessive amount of small holes from tacks/nails
Drawings, crayon markings, or wallpaper that was not approved
Stained, broken, or missing window blinds
Stained, ripped, or burn marks on the curtains
Stained, ripped, or burned carpets
Chipped or gouged wood floor
Water stains on wood flooring from a window left open during a storm
Door ripped off its hinges
Broken cabinet doors
Missing or damaged smoke detector or Carbon Monoxide alarm

A few other things to consider when evaluating normal wear and tear on your rental property.

Hardware

When considering doorknobs, drawer pulls, and appliances, if the items were worn before move-in, it’s unfair to charge tenants for wear or breakage that was inevitable due to age.

Carpet Cleaning

Many landlords include a provision in the lease stating that carpets will be professionally cleaned after move-out at the tenant’s expense, with the cost automatically deducted from the deposit, which can eliminate quibbling over minor dirt and stains.

Cleaning Fees

It’s reasonable to request that tenants return the unit to you in a clean condition. Make sure you give them prior notification of what’s expected before a move-out so they have time to clean and make any necessary repairs before the walk-through inspection. If the home is left in a dirty condition, it’s reasonable for you to charge a cleaning fee.

TAKE CARE OF THE PROPERTY THROUGHOUT THE LEASE, NOT JUST AT THE END

Most tenants aren’t going to intentionally trash your property. Preventing wear and tear is one of the most important parts of protecting your bottom line. By helping your tenants report wear and tear, taking care of it before it becomes a bigger problem, and being easy to do business with, you can protect your investment and be a good landlord.

Our Services

Sat, 04 Feb 2023 19:32:21 GMT

At Lifestyles Realty Group Property Management, we handle everything from financials to lease administration, rent collection, repairs and maintenance, and tenant engagement.

Our Full Service Property Management Services:

Free rental property market analysis
Thorough property inspection that includes photos and written documentation along with recommendations to ensure that your home is rent-ready
Aggressive marketing through our network of real estate agents and online advertising
Pictures that showcase the unique characteristics of your property
Take all calls, coordinate, and show your home as often as needed, during all hours and by appointment.
Tenant screenings, qualification and placement--every tenant must undergo a meticulous credit and background check as well as verify employment, income, and past rental history.
Coordination of maintenance requests
We are available 24 hours a day for emergencies for our tenants and our owners
Preventive maintenance and inspections
Coordination of Tenant move-in; including walk-through photos
Coordination of Tenant move-out; including walk-through photos and written documentation. Coordination of any needed maintenance, cleaning and security deposit final accounting.
Owner Portal allows 24-hour access to your account
Direct deposit expedites rent collection and distribution
Owner disbursements on the 10th of every month. If the 10th falls on a holiday or weekend, money would be disbursed the following business day, no later than the 14th
Comprehensive monthly and yearly accounting
Provide yearly statements for tax preparation and 1099s

Interested in learning more about our services?

Michelle Hardesty

(541) 408-3620

Michelle@LifestylesGroupRE.com

10 Reasons Why You Should Hire a Property Manager

michelle@lifestylesgroupre.com (Michelle Hardesty) — Wed, 04 Jan 2023 19:44:17 GMT

10 Reasons Why You Should Hire a Property Manager

Owning investment property can be a great way to accomplish your financial goals, but it takes a lot of work to manage your investment well. Here are ten reasons why you should consider hiring a property management company to help manage your investment.

1. Finding the Right Tenants

Experienced property managers are experts at finding good tenants, and will take care of all the details, including the securing all criminal background and security checks, running credit reports, verifying employment, and collecting previous landlord references.

2. Understanding of Property Management Laws

There is a multitude of applicable laws and regulations to abide by when renting and maintaining your rental property. These include local, state and federal regulations, as well as fair housing regulations (such as the ADA). A property manager can help you avoid lawsuits by keeping your property up-to-date and in compliance with these regulations as well as up-to-date rental agreements.

3. They Help You Get Rid of Maintenance Headaches

A property management company, provides an online maintenance portal system and a long list of approved vendors, to assist in the event of maintenance needs. All of this alleviating stress and giving back precious time to you.

4. Marketing and Advertising Your Property

Through experience, a property manager will know exactly where to market your property and how to craft compelling advertising materials---a significant advantage when it comes to filling your properties quickly and avoiding long vacancies.

5. Access to Professional Software and Online Portals

Property management companies have efficient, tried-and-true systems in place to effectively collect rent and maintain on-time payments.

6. Manage Tenants

In addition to finding good tenants, a property management company will manage all aspects of the tenant-landlord relationship. The property manager will handle both routine and emergency maintenance, take care of routine inspections, and manage any situations where conflict resolution is required.

7. Handling Evictions

If you have to walk through the eviction process, a property management company (with an attorney at their disposal), will guide you through the legalities and red tape within Oregon Landlord/Tenant laws.

8. Saves You Time

We all know the popular phrase “time is money.” Your time should be spent investing in other properties, with family or freeing up your schedule to do the things that you enjoy. By hiring a property management company to spend the time marketing, handling calls, scheduling maintenance you will be keeping your cost to a minimum because you save time!

9. Financial Freedom

Property management is a full-time job and it is crucial to routinely monitor your operational cost. Hiring a property management company can help you set accurate market rates and ensure you’re not leaving money on the table with incorrect pricing strategies.

10. Access to a Team of Trusted Professionals

Maybe the most important reason to hire a property management company is that you will have access to a team of trusted professionals who know the industry. You can have peace of mind that your property is going to be managed well, and all of the stress won't rest directly on you!

Winter Holiday Safety

michelle@lifestylesgroupre.com (Michelle Hardesty) — Fri, 02 Dec 2022 02:59:08 GMT

Ensure a merry and bright holiday season by safely maintaining your tree with the following tips.

Festive celebrations, flickering lights and winter greens are hallmarks of the holiday season, but they also present fire risk that can quickly turn this festive time of year into a devastating one. Ensure a merry and bright holiday season by safely maintaining your tree with the following tips.

Picking the Tree

Choose a tree with fresh, green needles that will not fall off when touched.

Placing the Tree

Trim the tree's stump by at least two inches on freshly cut trees.
Make sure the tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like fireplaces, space heaters, candles, heat vents or lights.
Fill the water reservoir daily and check the condition of the trunk bark and branches for moisture. Shedding or dry needles could mean the tree is drying out, increasing overall fire risks.

Lighting the Tree

Examine extension cords for signs of damage. Frayed electrical cords should be discarded.
Carefully inspect all lights before you use them. Cracked or damaged sockets and/or loose or exposed wires can cause serious shock or start a fire.
Use lights that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory. Some lights are only for indoor or outdoor use.
Always turn off Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to bed.

After Christmas

Get rid of the tree after Christmas or when its dry. Dried-out trees are a fire danger and should not be left in the home or garage, or placed outside against the house.
Check with your local community to find a recycling program.
Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and make them last longer.