Owner FAQs
Answers to your frequently asked questions
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What is your process for handling maintenance requests?
We prioritize maintenance requests to ensure tenant satisfaction and protect your investment. Tenants can submit requests via our secure online portal, accessible 24/7. Our team assesses the urgency of each request, coordinating with trusted vendors for prompt and effective resolution. We communicate closely with you regarding significant repairs to ensure transparency and control over your property expenses. -
How do you handle tenant evictions?
Evictions are managed with the utmost professionalism and adherence to legal standards. Our process includes serving the appropriate notices, filing the necessary legal documents, and representing your interests in court if required. We aim to resolve eviction matters swiftly and efficiently, minimizing impact on your rental income and preparing the property for re-rental as quickly as possible. -
Can you assist with property upgrades and renovations?
Yes, we can manage property upgrades and renovations to enhance property value and attract higher-quality tenants. Our team will work with you to identify potential improvements, source reliable contractors, and oversee the renovation process, ensuring work is completed to high standards within budget and timeline constraints. -
How do you determine the rental price for my property?
We conduct a comprehensive market analysis, considering factors such as location, property condition, size, and local rental market trends. This data-driven approach ensures your property is priced competitively to attract tenants while maximizing your rental income potential. -
What makes your property management services stand out?
Our dedication to personalized service, local market expertise, and the use of advanced technology distinguishes us. We offer a seamless property management experience, from tenant screening and maintenance to financial reporting and legal compliance, all tailored to meet the unique needs of your property and investment goals. -
Do you provide legal advice on landlord-tenant laws?
While we are knowledgeable about Washington state landlord-tenant laws and ensure compliance in our management practices, we recommend consulting with a legal professional for specific legal advice. Our team can refer you to trusted attorneys specializing in real estate and landlord-tenant law. -
How do you market my property?
We use a multi-faceted marketing approach to maximize your property's visibility. This includes listing your property on major rental websites, social media marketing, professional signage, and leveraging our network of local real estate professionals. Our goal is to minimize vacancy periods and find the right tenant for your property. -
Are you licensed?
Absolutely. All of our property managers are fully licensed, holding active real estate licenses in the State of Washington. This certification ensures that we meet the highest standards of professionalism and legal compliance in managing your property. -
Can I reach you after hours?
While our official business hours are Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm, we understand the importance of addressing urgent matters promptly. Should you need to contact us outside of these hours, we encourage you to leave a voicemail or email. Urgent inquiries will receive our immediate attention, with responses provided as swiftly as possible. Our commitment is to reconnect with you at the earliest opportunity during the next business day. -
Can you directly deposit my rental income into my account?
Yes, we facilitate the direct deposit of your rental income via Automated Clearing House (ACH), ensuring a secure and efficient transfer. Please allow 3 to 5 business days for transactions to complete. -
Do I get to review and sign the lease agreement?
Transparency is key in our services, and you may review the lease agreement at any time. Lease agreements are finalized and signed utilizing an advanced electronic signature platform for efficiency and security by us. -
Do you also engage in real estate sales?
Indeed, we do. Harcourts Peninsula Properties boasts a team of skilled real estate agents ready to assist with all your buying and selling needs, leveraging years of experience in the Kitsap County market to serve you better. -
How and when do I receive my rental income?
Rental payments received by the 5th of each month are processed and disbursed to property owners by the 10th. The transfer can take up to 5 business days to reflect in your bank account or arrive in your mailbox. -
What is your approach to rent collection?
We offer a streamlined rent collection process through our online portal, supporting various payment methods including Echeck, ACH, credit, and debit cards. Tenants have the option to set up automatic recurring payments, ensuring rent is consistently paid on time. Traditional payment methods such as checks, money orders, and cashier's checks are also accepted at our office. -
What lease terms do you offer?
Our lease terms are designed to provide flexibility and security, offering durations between 6 to 12 months. Leases shorter than 6 months require a justified cause for termination or non-renewal, while leases exceeding 12 months necessitate a notarized signature and official recording. Our recommended lease term is 12 months, balancing stability for both tenants and property owners. -
What is your policy on security deposits?
The security deposit typically equals the monthly rent, ensuring sufficient coverage for any potential damages. Depending on the property and tenant circumstances, additional security or pet deposits may be required. -
When can you start managing my property?
We can commence management services immediately upon the signing of an agreement by an authorized property representative. Our team is ready to streamline your property management experience with minimal delay. -
What types of properties do you manage?
Our portfolio encompasses a wide range of properties, including single-family homes, multi-family units, small apartment complexes, and condominiums not requiring onsite management. Our expertise allows us to tailor our services to meet the specific needs of each property type. -
What financial reports will I receive?
You will receive comprehensive financial reports monthly and annually, including income/expense reports and a 1099 form for tax purposes. These reports are designed to keep you well-informed about your property's financial performance. -
Who manages the tenant security deposit?
In full management arrangements, we securely hold tenant security deposits in a dedicated trust account, ensuring compliance with local IORTA regulations. This approach safeguards both tenant and property owner interests. -
Am I required to make my property available to Section 8?
The practice of turning away Section 8 holders or other prospective renters because of their source of income was banned in Washington state by the Legislature during its 2018 session. It went into effect in September 2018. Under the new law, landlords may not reject qualified tenants purely because they receive local, state or federal funding to pay rent. -
Are you licensed?
YES, our property managers have an Active Washington State real estate license. -
Can I reach you after hours?
Our business hours are Monday-Friday 9am-5pm. We do have personal lives and the staff should be able to enjoy that time. However, we do get notifications of voicemails/emails, if the response cannot wait until the next business day, we will do our best to respond to you at that time. If not, we will reach out to you first thing the next business day. -
Can you put the money directly into my account?
We use an ACH feature- which takes 3-5 business days to complete. -
Do I get to see the lease or sign it?
You may review the lease at any time. We however, complete and sign the leases. -
Do you sell real estate too?
YES we do. Harcourts Peninsula Properties has several real estate agents to assist in your needs. -
How and when do I get my checks?
When rent payments are received by the 5th day of the month- the rental income will be distributed to the owner by the 10th day of the month. It can take up to 5 business days to process and reach either your bank account or mailbox. -
How is rent collection handled?
We make it easy to pay rents and other fees with Echeck, ACH, Credit and Debit Card through your portal. Tenants can set up recurring payments to automatically pay rent on time. Tenants can also pay by check, money order, and cashier's check at the office. -
How long of a lease do you sign?
We offer between 6 month and 12 month leases. If a lease is less than 6 months, it will require a “Just Cause” Reason to end or not offer a renewal at the end of the term. If a lease is longer than 12 months, it requires a Notary signature and recording at the County Courthouse. Our preferred lease is a 12 month lease. -
How much security deposit do you charge the tenant?
Security deposits will generally match the monthly rental amount. Special circumstances can require an additional security deposit and/or pet deposit. -
How soon can you start managing my property?
As soon as an agreement has been accepted and signed by the person with legal rights to rent the property. -
What type of properties do you manage?
We manage single family homes, multi family units, small apartment complexes and condominiums that do not require on site property managers. -
What type of reports do I get and how often?
We provide monthly income/expense report(s), annual income/expense report(s) and 1099 for tax reporting purposes. -
Who holds the tenant security deposit?
For a Full Management (as opposed to Tenant-Placements Only, we hold the security deposit in our trust account in a local IORTA account.