Not every real estate investor is a landlord, but every landlord is, in fact, a real estate investor. If you look around, “landlord” has become something of a dirty word. That’s because, over the years, there has become increasing animosity between property owners and their renters. Now, we’re not here to invalidate anyone’s experience. There are bad actors on both sides. Instead, we aim to demonstrate what DIY investors often get wrong about their residents and how a different approach can improve working relationships while benefiting their bottom line.
Further Reading: The Dangers of DIY Real Estate Investing
If you’re a passive investor, keep reading. You hire property managers. And they, like landlords, need to handle your residents and your investment with intention and care. If anything, use this as a guide on how to select a property management team that understands the business—and your renters—well.
Property managers may miss key insights about your rental residents that, if understood, could improve your business, reduce turnover, and increase profitability.
7 Truths About Rental Residents that REALLY Matter
#1 – Renters Value Stability as Much as You Do
Many landlords assume renters are transient, but most prefer stability. We find that most of our residents stick around for at least five years, and many of them renew! Renting isn’t what it used to be. It’s not just for college students and single people with fledgling careers. Families rent. People who want to put down roots rent. And we as an industry must start treating them accordingly!
Offering lease renewal incentives, transparent communication, and fair rent increases can encourage long-term residents…ultimately reducing vacancy and turnover costs.
#2 – Quality Maintenance is a Competitive Advantage
Renters are more likely to stay and treat the property well when they feel their concerns are taken seriously. Have you ever rented a home, even just for a vacation, and needed to call maintenance? How would you feel if they just…never showed up? Offered a half-hearted solution?
Delayed or poorly handled repairs make residents feel undervalued and more likely to move, which costs investors more in the long run.
Attentive, proactive property management is your key to rising above the competition.
#3 – Fair, Predictable Rent Increases Encourage Retention
Unexpected or steep rent hikes cause people to seek greener pastures. Instead of maximizing rent in one jump, implement small, predictable increases (typically 2-5% annually). Trust us. Be transparent and fair. You’ll have fewer vacancies and happier renters.
#4 – Respect and Communication Go a Long Way
Who doesn’t appreciate clear and professional communication? We can tell you from experience – rental residents sure do! A responsive and respectful management team fosters goodwill, resulting in stronger relationships and reduced conflict. This includes setting clear expectations in writing, providing timely notice, and addressing concerns promptly.
#5 – A Good Resident is More Valuable Than a Few Extra Dollars
Sometimes, it seems like landlords go to great lengths to squeeze blood from stones. And how many times do they lose great residents by pushing for top-market rent or charging excessive fees? Listen. It doesn’t have to be complicated. If your resident pays on time, takes care of the home, and is low-maintenance, keeping them at a slightly below-market rate for the sake of retention may be more profitable than risking a vacancy or a subpar follow-up.
#6 – Flexibility Can Lead to Longer Occupations
Small accommodations, such as allowing pets (with reasonable deposits), working together during temporary financial hardships, or permitting minor personalization (like painting walls or adding shelving) can go a long way! These things, no matter how small, make a rental feel like a home that people are reluctant to leave.
#7 – Renters Want an Ally, Not an Opponent
Too many investors and landlords focus solely on protecting their investment, but forget that their residents are, in fact, customers. They’re clients. A positive relationship with them only makes them more likely to follow rules, communicate openly, and renew their lease. We don’t have to view residents as a liability. Quite the contrary – they can be one of your biggest assets!
Ultimately, investors of all kinds would do well to prioritize resident needs, whether they’re performing landlord duties themselves or vetting the individuals who will. Taking care of your investment property means taking care of the people who live there, period!
Why REI Nation’s Property Management Outperforms DIY Landlording
At REI Nation, we take a different approach—one that prioritizes both investor success and resident satisfaction. While DIY landlords often struggle with high turnover, maintenance headaches, and tenant disputes, our in-house property management team ensures that every rental runs smoothly, profitably, and with long-term stability in mind.
- Consistently Low Vacancy Rates – Our residents stay an average of 5-7 years, significantly reducing turnover costs.
- Proactive Maintenance & Repairs – We don’t just fix problems—we prevent them, protecting your investment and keeping residents happy.
- Transparent & Fair Rental Pricing – Strategic rent increases that retain quality residents while maximizing long-term returns.
- Professional Resident Relations – We foster a culture of communication and respect, turning rental properties into stable, income-generating assets.
Investing in real estate should be passive, not a second job. Let REI Nation handle the hard work while you enjoy the benefits of stress-free, high-performing investments. Ready to make the switch to smarter investing? Contact us today to learn how our turnkey approach can help you build lasting wealth!
