How to Be a Long-Distance Landlord

Being a landlord can be challenging, especially when you're managing a property from a distance. Whether you're moving for work, seizing a remote investment opportunity, or seeking passive income in retirement, managing a rental remotely is becoming more and more common today. 

However, despite modern technology, there are unique challenges. To maximize your rental’s potential and minimize risks, here are the key practices from  Keller n’ Jadd Realty & Management to help long-distance landlords succeed.

1. Thorough Tenant Screening

Selecting reliable tenants is crucial for long-distance landlords. From afar, it’s harder to manage day-to-day issues and tenant behavior, so it’s important to screen tenants thoroughly. Look beyond surface details and check rental history, credit scores, employment stability, and references.

Speaking with previous landlords can provide valuable insight into how tenants maintain properties and follow lease agreements. While screening may take a little extra time upfront, it will save you significant headaches later on. 

Here are some specific things to look for when screening tenants:

• Credit History: Check for signs of financial stability, such as good credit scores and a history of paying bills on time.
• Rental History: Review past landlord references to assess whether they were responsible, paid rent on time, and took care of the property.
• Criminal Background Checks: Ensure there are no serious criminal offenses that could endanger the property or community.
• Income Verification: Make sure your tenants can afford the rent and other living expenses.

It’s better to be thorough now than risk dealing with property damage, non-payment, or legal troubles in the future.

2. Maintain Open and Regular Communication

As a long-distance landlord, maintaining open communication with tenants is key. Since you can’t inspect the property often, encourage tenants to report maintenance issues, like leaks or broken appliances, early. 

Prompt action can prevent small problems from becoming costly repairs. Make it easy for tenants to reach you to ensure issues are addressed quickly.

To help maintain clear and open lines of communication, try these methods:



• Provide Multiple Contact Options: Make sure your tenants have your updated phone number, email, and any other communication methods you prefer.
• Set Up Regular Check-Ins: Schedule monthly or quarterly phone calls or emails with your tenants. These check-ins are a great opportunity to ask about any concerns and get updates on the condition of the property.
• Use Technology: Online platforms such as property management software or apps allow tenants to report issues, pay rent, and communicate directly with you, which makes everything more efficient and organized.

The key is to create an atmosphere where your tenants feel comfortable reporting problems early and asking questions as they arise. This proactive approach can help avoid costly repair bills or tenant dissatisfaction.

3. Plan Annual Visits

While you can’t be physically present every day, planning at least one in-person visit to your rental property each year is an important step. These visits let you inspect the condition of the property, but they also allow you to build a personal relationship with your tenants.

A property visit is your chance to:

• Inspect the property for maintenance issues that might have been overlooked.
• Meet your tenants in person, discuss their experience, and gauge their satisfaction.
• Identify any long-term maintenance needs that may require attention soon.

In addition to being an important part of property management, these visits can also offer tax advantages. The IRS allows you to deduct the expenses incurred during a property visit, such as transportation costs, hotel stays, and meals. So, plan a visit, even if it’s only for a few days, to take full advantage of these tax breaks.

4. Stay Updated on Local Market Trends

Being a long-distance landlord doesn’t mean you should be out of the loop. Stay informed about the local rental market and neighborhood trends to keep your property competitive.

Here’s how:

• Follow Local News: Set up Google alerts or subscribe to real estate newsletters to track market shifts and changes in rental laws.
• Connect With Local Professionals: Talk to agents or property managers for insights on pricing and demand.
• Monitor Competitors: Compare your rent to nearby properties and adjust based on market conditions.



By staying updated, you can adjust rental prices and remain competitive.

5. Leverage Local Resources for Maintenance and Repairs

As a long-distance landlord, addressing maintenance issues quickly can be tough without being on-site. To solve this, build a reliable local network of contractors or hire a property management company. 

They’ll have trusted vendors on hand to handle repairs, allowing you to resolve issues without being physically present.

Other ways to ensure timely maintenance include:

• Set Up a Maintenance Fund: Having a reserve fund set aside for repairs can help you respond quickly without needing to wait for approval or liquid asset funds.
• Create a List of Trusted Service Providers: If you prefer to manage things yourself, make a list of local contractors and repair services who can handle maintenance when needed.

6. Consider Hiring a Property Manager

For many long-distance landlords, hiring a property management company is the most efficient solution. It relieves stress by handling everything from marketing and tenant screening to repairs and rent collection.

Benefits include:

• Marketing and Tenant Placement: They market your property and ensure it's seen by the right audience.
• Maintenance and Repairs: They quickly arrange repairs with trusted vendors.
• Rent Collection and Bookkeeping: They collect rent on time and offer accounting services.
• Tenant Management: They manage tenant requests and issues, ensuring consistent service without your involvement.



By hiring a property manager, you can be confident that your investment is in good hands, even when you're not around.

Bottom Line

Managing a rental from a distance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right strategies, such as screening tenants, maintaining regular communication, scheduling visits, staying updated on the local market, and considering a property management company, you can successfully oversee your long-distance rental.

If you’re ready to streamline your property management process, contact Keller n’ Jadd Realty & Management today. We’re here to help make the experience easier and more profitable for you!