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One of the biggest questions we hear from landlords is, “What can I do with my tenant’s security deposit?” While the answer may seem straightforward—“use it if something goes wrong”—there are actually several important rules and best practices to follow. Odest and Tatiauna from 24-7 Property Management are here to break it down. 1. Use an Interest-Bearing Account Most states require landlords to place security deposits in a separate, interest-bearing bank account. This ensures: Pro Tip: Keep clear banking records in case you need to verify the deposit’s interest rate or prove compliance with local regulations. 2. Match the Deposit to One Month’s Rent A common rule of thumb is to set the security deposit at the same amount as one month’s rent (e.g., $2,500 rent = $2,500 deposit). However, some areas allow you to charge up to two or three months’ rent. Always check local laws, as these can vary widely. Why It Matters: 3. Understand the Proper Use of Deposit Funds Landlords can’t use security deposits for property upgrades or cosmetic changes. Instead, the deposit is meant to restore the unit to the same condition it was in before the tenant’s move-in, covering things like: Key Takeaway: Stick to legitimate damages and cleaning costs. Charging a tenant’s deposit for minor wear and tear is often prohibited and may lead to disputes. 4. Document Everything with Photos Proper documentation protects both you and your tenant: These visual records can be priceless if you need to justify using any part of the security deposit for repairs or cleaning. Why This Matters for Landlords Final Thoughts Security deposits can be a landlord’s best friend—or a major headache—depending on how they’re handled. By using an interest-bearing account, setting an appropriate deposit amount, restricting deposit usage to legitimate damages, and thoroughly documenting the property’s condition, you’ll be well on your way to a smooth, hassle-free rental experience. If you need more guidance on how to manage security deposits or other aspects of property management, 24-7 Property Management is here to help. Contact us at 310-905-7228 or visit ManagedBy247.com to learn more about our services. Music: Purple Planet Music Remember, every property (and local regulation) can differ, so always double-check your area’s specific rules and guidelines.

Keeping a great tenant isn’t just about securing steady rent checks; it’s about fostering a relationship that benefits both parties. Odest Riley from 24-7 Property Management has seen firsthand how much time and money it takes to replace a good tenant. Below are three practical habits that can help you retain top-notch renters and avoid the hassle of finding new ones. 1. Practice Constant, Clear Communication Why It Matters:Good communication builds trust. When tenants feel comfortable bringing concerns to you—and confident you’ll address them—it creates a sense of loyalty and respect. What to Do: 2. Resolve Maintenance Issues Quickly Why It Matters:Prompt maintenance is one of the biggest indicators of a responsible landlord or property manager. Tenants who see their problems addressed quickly are far more likely to renew their lease. What to Do: Pro Tip: A little effort—like checking on the property’s air filters or plumbing—can save you larger headaches later and show tenants you care. 3. Ensure Rules are Crystal Clear Why It Matters:No one likes surprises. If tenants clearly understand the rules—whether it’s about noise levels, guest policies, or pet restrictions—they’ll be less likely to feel “ambushed” by a request or violation notice. What to Do: Bonus: Why Retention Beats Replacement Cost and Time Savings:Advertising, screening, and onboarding new tenants can be expensive—often running into hundreds or even thousands of dollars, not to mention the time you’ll spend sifting through applications and scheduling showings. Community Building:When tenants stay put, they contribute to a stable, consistent environment. This can boost the overall quality of life in your property and encourage new renters to stay longer as well. Long-Term Relationships:Satisfied tenants may end up referring friends or family, creating a pipeline of reliable new renters without you lifting a finger. Final Thoughts Keeping the best tenants is much simpler (and cheaper) than replacing them. By focusing on proactive communication, timely maintenance, and transparent rules, you’ll ensure your rental property remains a place where good tenants want to stay long-term. If you need more tips or professional help, 24-7 Property Management is here for you. Give us a call at 310-905-7228 or visit ManagedBy247.com to learn more about how we can support you in managing your properties effectively. Music: Purple Planet Music Ready to keep your top-notch tenants happy? Start implementing these three habits today and see how they transform your property management experience!

As a landlord, one of the most important decisions you make is choosing the right tenant. It’s not just about securing income—it’s about protecting your investment and maintaining peace of mind. My name is Odest Riley with 24-7 Property Management, and over the years, I’ve seen what works and what doesn’t when it comes to tenant screening. Below, I’ll share three essential tips, plus a few extra insights to help you along the way. 1. Run Comprehensive Credit & Background Checks A simple credit check can reveal a lot about a prospective tenant’s payment habits. If there are multiple late payments, heavy credit card debt, or even a recent bankruptcy, these could be red flags. Likewise, a background check may show any criminal history or other legal concerns you’d want to know before handing over the keys. Why it matters: Pro Tip: Don’t forget to verify the applicant’s identity. Ask for a government-issued ID to confirm that the person applying is who they say they are. 2. Evaluate Work History—and Consider Co-Signers A tenant’s job stability can be a strong indicator of whether they’ll pay rent on time. Look at their length of employment, employer’s reputation, and monthly income. If someone is new to the workforce or has a fluctuating income (e.g., freelance workers), ask for a co-signer with a solid credit and work history. Why it matters: Pro Tip: Consider also asking for recent pay stubs or bank statements to confirm salary and savings. This helps validate any claims made in the application. 3. Look for Overall Stability Beyond credit scores and jobs, think about the bigger picture. Has the applicant moved frequently in the last few years? Do they have positive references from previous landlords? A stable background—both on paper and in actual behavior—can reduce headaches down the road. Why it matters: Pro Tip: Pick up the phone and talk to previous landlords. Ask about payment history, how well the tenant maintained the property, and whether they would rent to them again. It’s Easier to Screen Than to Evict Evictions can be lengthy, stressful, and costly. According to some industry estimates, a single eviction can cost a landlord thousands of dollars in legal fees, lost rent, and property damage. It’s far simpler—and less expensive—to prevent problems by screening thoroughly from the start. Need Help with Tenant Screening? That’s what we do at 24-7 Property Management—we help landlords protect their investments by finding reliable tenants. If you’d like personalized guidance or a complete property management solution, give me a call at 310-905-7228 or visit ManagedBy247.com. Let’s work together to ensure you get the right tenant in place from day one. Music: www.purple-planet.com Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for your specific situation.

As a Realtor, your time is money. Every hour you spend managing someone’s property is an hour you aren’t prospecting for new clients or closing deals. That’s why we created the Realtor Referral Program at 24-7 Property Management—to help you stay focused on real estate transactions while still benefiting financially from property management opportunities. Why Referrals Matter Referrals are the backbone of any successful Realtor’s business. By referring clients who need property management services to us, you’re showing them you have a trusted partner who can handle their rental property’s day-to-day operations. This lets you focus on sales and ensures your clients are well taken care of. The Program at a Glance No matter which option you choose, you keep the relationship with your client. We simply handle the property management side so you can move on to your next deal. How It Works Stay in Control We understand how important your client relationships are. Our process ensures you remain in the loop, so when your client is ready to buy or sell again, you’re still their go-to Realtor. Ready to Start? If you’re a Realtor looking to streamline your workflow, increase your income, and maintain exceptional client service, our referral program is a win-win. Call us at 310-905-7228 or visit ManagedBy247.com to learn more.