When processing applications from potential tenants, it’s important to know certain types of background information so you can make the best choice for your new renter. You may get a good first impression of a tenant, but unfortunately, you can’t always rely on your impression to make the right decision. Doing your homework when it […]
It’s never easy to find out your tenant wants to prematurely end their lease. As a landlord, you not only count on the income from your investment property, but it’s also in your best interest to keep your unit filled, and not just for monetary reasons. A vacant unit can increase your property insurance, and […]
If you’re moving or traveling and want to transition your primary home into a rental property, there are a few key steps you need to take. Having an income property is great. Still, in order to reduce your liability and create a sustainable investment, you have to check off all the necessary steps to turn […]
The rental market in DC is always growing, make it a dynamic opportunity for landlords. However, DC is one of the most protective areas in the country when it comes to tenants. DC laws and regulations make it essential to have a proper lease when renting out your property. Don’t just go pick up a […]
Have you been managing your own income property, or have recently purchased an income property? Maybe you’ve taken some steps to set up your rental unit but aren’t sure if you’re doing everything right. Or, maybe you’re finding that managing all the details of your investment is a bit more time consuming than you’d originally […]
Managing a rental unit or several units takes time and effort that many people simply can’t dedicate to have a successful income property. Turning to an experienced DC property management company can make life easier for both you and your renters, allowing you to stress less about your investment. But what should you expect when […]
When you have an income property, you have the option of managing it yourself or having a professional property manager do it for you. Running a rental property is a business, and handling all aspects of your investment involves more than making sure the property itself is taken care of. You’ll also need to manage […]
Whether you’ve been renting out your income property for years or this is your first time as a landlord, it can be a lot of work to get a property ready to rent. Even if your unit is in good condition or is a new-construction build, not every property is automatically considered to be rent […]
As a landlord, it’s part of your job to handle the necessary repairs at your income property. Even if you have a property manager take care of these tasks for you, you still need to have disposable income ready for everything from minor repairs to emergency ones. While having available funds for repairs is essential, […]
You take precautionary measures when it comes to your investment property, but did you know that tenant notification should be among them? Proper notification for your tenants can not only help protect your investment property, but improve communication between you and your tenants for a sustainable, mutually-beneficial relationship. At FAS Management, we know that the […]
Do you have a basement apartment you’d like to rent out, or are moving into a new home and want to rent out your old place? It’s important to know that you can’t just have tenants move in—there are certain steps to take to prepare your home to be a rental unit in Washington DC. […]
When you need a property manager in DC or are considering becoming a property manager, consider that DC property managers are required to be licensed. In order to become licensed, property managers in DC must pass a test. Who does DC consider to be a property manager, and what type of license are property managers […]
With over 11,000 people moving into Washington DC every year, there’s certainly a demand for places to rent. People are looking for neighborhoods that provide a mix of quiet spaces, access to public transportation, and exciting things to do and see on the weekends. What DC neighborhoods represent the strongest rental markets? The following areas […]
If your current renters’ lease is up or you have a new rental unit you’re considering putting on the market in Washington DC, it’s important to consider your timing. Depending on your unique rental property, there are peak times of the year to put it on the market. Whether your unit is designed for a […]
Fred A. Smith (FAS) Management has been helping residential building owners in DC increase the value of their property and save money for the last 40 years. We’ve been partnering with landlords to deliver the best service to tenants and improve the efficiency and success of their DC rentals. How does our team at FAS […]
Students make up a large sector of the rental market, with an average of 44 percent of students living in off-campus housing according to The College Board. It comes as no surprise then that the student rental market is a highly competitive but lucrative industry. There are many colleges and universities in DC, including The […]
Managing your own income property might not seem like much more than finding people to move in and collecting rent every month. But what happens when the roof starts leaking at 2 a.m.? What do you do when a tenant files a complaint against you in court? Who will maintain the lawn at the property? […]
A property manager can increase the value of your investment property by providing their professional insight, experience, and efficiency for long-lasting and sustainable success. While property management companies do charge fees for their services, they’re often well worth the expenses, headaches, and time that comes with running your own investment property. So what are property […]
Property managers handle many daily tasks that are invaluable to income property owners. A property manager plays an instrumental role in keeping your investment safe and your tenants satisfied. From handling emergencies to screening renters, the right property manager increases the value of your investment property in DC. FAS Management has been in business since […]
Check out the new website launch for The Fred A. Smith Company! The Fred A. Smith Company is proud to present the launch of our new company website. Since 1946, FAS has been one of the premier residential property management companies in Washington D.C., and our new website provides new information as well as client […]
2018 will bring in new benefits to those using the online Tenant Portal. Effective January 1, 2018 Fred A. Smith Company will pay the convenience fee of $2.95 when you pay your rent online! The Tenant Portal is the most convenient way to make sure your rent is paid on time. No more possibility of […]
We thought April showers brought May flowers, well adding May’s showers we should be getting a boatload of flowers in June! Spring & Summer are wonderful seasons to be outside and enjoying this great city. Please remember to close your windows when you leave your apartment and be respectful of your neighbors by keeping the […]
We’ve been lucky lately with summer extending into October, but the cold winds are starting to blow. This is the time to get ready for those short, dark days ahead. First, the heat has been tuned on to all our multi-family buildings. If you see any leaks from the convectors or radiators, please report it […]
As renters of a single family house, please follow these tips to limit and prevent damage that freezing weather can cause. • Ensure water is shut-off to outside spigots and hoses are unscrewed and drained. The spigot shut-off is usually located inside the house within a few feet of where the spigot is located. Ensure […]
Finally the bitter cold of winter is behind us! As spring approaches, please ensure you take care of the following items at your home. Please follow these tips to limit damage the changing seasons can cause: • Ensure outside gutters and drains are clear of leaves and debris at all times. • Ensure you regularly […]
The number one, most frequent maintenance call we receive is for clogged or jammed garbage disposals. It is important to know disposal does not mean “Dispose-All”. While disposals are a handy tool for kitchen clean-up, they are not meant to act as trash receptacles for all leftover foods. Garbage disposals are designed to grind the […]
