Owner Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: What type of properties do you manage?

  A: We manage residential properties, including single family homes, condos, townhomes, duplexes, triplexes, and smaller apartment complexes.

• Q: How soon can you start managing my property?

  A: We typically list properties the same day that we receive the signed management agreement and keys.

• Q: Can you help me if I already have a tenant?

  A: Yes. We can manage mid-term lease or when that the current lease concludes. In cases where the resident is behind in their rent, we can take the necessary steps to either get them to pay or evict if we cannot obtain payment. Many residents will suddenly find a way to pay the rent or move as soon as they hear that a management company has been secured to follow through with collection.

• Q: Can you put the money directly into my account?

  A: Yes, we pay our owners via ACH on the 8th of each month.

• Q: Who is responsible for changing the filters?

  A: We have partnered with FilterEasy , the #1 air filter subscription company in the world, and we are able to structure a solution uniquely designed to dramatically increase rental resident compliance.

  In Summary:

  • The exact quantity, size, and quality of filters needed will be delivered on a subscription basis for the lease period. No more searching at the store.
  • Shipments will have our logo and messaging, reminding residents of their obligation.
  • Filters will be stamped with expiration dates, so we can hold residents accountable.
  • Instructions as well as benefits will be included to educate and motivate the resident.
  • The most important thing is that the filters arriving on their doorstep is the trigger to change the air filters on time, so remembering is no longer part of the equation. In addition to the in hand reminder, we also send out email notifications to the tenant the day the filter gets shipped out. In this email reminder, there is a tracking number, so the resident can see where the shipment is in real time.

• Q: Do you sell real estate too?

  A: Yes, if you have decided to sell, simply call our office to speak to a realtor about the sales process.

• Q: Who holds the security deposit?

  A: We hold security deposits in our Escrow Account until the lease is fulfilled and the property is inspected for cleaning and damages.

• Q: How much security deposit do you charge the tenant?

  A: Security deposits are typically the same amount as the rent up to 1.5 times the rent amount. Pet deposits are additional.

• Q: Do I have to allow a pet?

  A: No. As the owner of the property it is your decision whether to allow pets or not. If you do not accept pets, you can expect to eliminate approximately 70% of potential applicants, and it could be substantially more difficult to rent your home. Owners have the option to allow either/or cats and dogs. In addition, owners can restrict the breed, age, and weight of pets. If you allow pets, we typically charge pet deposit and resident will sign a pet agreement. We also use a 3rd party Pet Screening process.

• Q: Who pays for utilities?

  A: Unless the HOA provides any included utilities, the tenants are responsible for having all the utilities in their own name. In addition, SMS Properties has partnered with Citizen Home Solutions, which is a free concierge service that helps tenants connect all utilities with one phone call.

• Q: How long of a lease do you sign?

  A: We offer 6 month, 1 year and 2 year leases.

• Q: What if a tenant is not taking care of my property?

  A: If it is noted on the property visit that your tenant is not keeping the property to the required standard, then a lease violation is issued, stating the items that need to be resolved. If this is not done within the stipulated time frame, usually 10 days, we will contact you to discuss the next course of option, including a lease termination notice if necessary.

• Q: What type of reports do I get and how often?

  A: Everytime we pay you, we send you a link to your online portal where everything is stored for you to access anytime. This is also where your 1099’s are kept.