FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We provide top-quality management of single family homes, townhomes, condos, and plexes.

We understand that if your property is vacant it is costing you – that is why Real Property Management specializes in faster rentals to rent-worthy tenants. Our proven method of aggressive advertising strategy has become perfected over the almost 30 years Real Property Management has been in business. We assist you by:

• Assisting with you on a rent rate that follows the market.
• Preparing the property for the best possible tenants.
• Quick responses to inquiries on the property.
• Conducting a thorough background/credit check on each applicant.
• A proven system for keeping tenants happy so they take better care of the property.

How long this lease process takes depends on many factors including: time of year, amenities, property readiness, restrictions on pets, price, area the property is in, etc. We do all within our power to lease a property quickly. It’s been proven time and again that properties rent faster when they are in great condition.

Those new to real estate investing may be tempted to set the rent price according to what the mortgage is but this is rarely the rule of thumb with a property. When this happens, the property owner is either missing out on extra income because the price is too low or missing out on tenants because the price is too high. We are local experts in helping you determine the best price to rent your property for according to the local market. Thousands have relied on us for our experienced guidance navigating the rental price of their rentals. We will help you get the best return according to the market.

Intentional damage to a property is very rare with us because of our solid background and credit screening processes. We create tenants who take better care of the property and stay longer because of our responsive service and proprietary renter incentives.

Even with careful tenant placement, late payments and even the need for an eviction can arise due to unforeseen circumstances such as job loss, divorce, and other causes. Here in Washington it can be costly if issues are not handled correctly and timely. Real Property Management Today will successfully avoid most evictions through a system that promptly collects rent and incentives tenants to pay rent on-time. If an eviction is necessary, we manage the eviction process swiftly, professionally, and in compliance with state and local laws. The goal is always to get the property re-leased as soon as possible.

Maintenance expenses are necessary with rental properties. But, being proactive in caring for repair issues will help keep vacancies to a minimum and save a lot of money over the long term. We have established trusted relationships with our preferred vendors which helps you ultimately save money and time, and our inspections of the property help you to identify issues before they get expensive. When your property needs maintenance, we provide reliable and timely service clearing all expenses with you in advance. Remember, properties must be maintained, cleaned and all safety hazards removed before a property is leased.

Whether you own one property or many, every property must be prepared and taken care of and we here at Real Property Management have the expertise and knowledge to protect your asset so that your investments are more profitable.

We have recently received some late night/early morning phone calls for folks that have locked themselves out of their homes. With this morning’s cold and snowfall, as well as the few storms the area has had, we would like to encourage everyone to evaluate your entry and exit strategy for your home. Do you have a hide-a-key? Do you have an alternative entry method to your home? If the power is out, or your garage won’t open, can you still get into your home? These are things that you need to be aware of and concerned about. If we need to come out to help, there will be a fee to service the call. We are more than willing to do so, but we highly encourage you to make sure you have a plan.

Here is a link to a few ideas on how to hide a key secretly.

Tacoma’s Just Cause Eviction Ordinance requires landlords to provide a valid reason to end a tenancy, even for month-to-month leases. Acceptable reasons include non-payment, lease violations, property sale, or owner move-in. Each cause has specific requirements, so it’s important to document and follow all local procedures.

Source: City of Tacoma Just Cause Eviction Ordinance

In Tacoma, landlords must give tenants at least 60 days’ notice before implementing a rent increase. If the increase is considered significant, landlords may also be responsible for tenant relocation assistance under certain conditions.

Source: Washington State Rent Increase Notice Requirements

Washington law requires landlords to provide an itemized condition checklist at move-in and return security deposits within 30 days after move-out, accompanied by a detailed list of any deductions. Tacoma landlords must also clearly outline deposit policies in the lease.

Source: Washington State Landlord-Tenant Act

Yes, Washington law sets timelines for repairs. For issues like heat or electricity outages, landlords have 24 hours to respond; for other repairs impacting safety, they have 72 hours. Proactively managing repairs keeps properties compliant and ensures tenant safety.

Source: Washington State Residential Landlord-Tenant Law, RCW 59.18.070

Yes, Tacoma landlords can require renters’ insurance as part of the lease agreement. This is often recommended, as it helps protect tenants’ belongings and provides liability coverage, benefiting both parties.

Source: Washington State Landlord-Tenant Laws

Washington’s Fair Tenant Screening Act requires that landlords disclose screening criteria and fees upfront. Tacoma landlords should also be aware of limitations on using criminal history in background checks, ensuring compliance with fair housing laws.

Source: Washington Fair Tenant Screening Act

Landlords must provide housing that meets basic safety standards, including working smoke detectors, secure doors and windows, and safe electrical systems. Routine inspections can help ensure your property remains up to code.

Source: Washington State Landlord-Tenant Act